Joint Munitions Command: Integrated Logistics

Accenture helped the Joint Munitions Command overcome systemic logistics and supply chain inefficiencies. By transforming its operations, the Joint Munitions Command is better equipped to achieve high performance by supplying US forces with the equipment they need when they need it, and is on track to reducing transport costs by as much as 50 percent.

Client Background
The Joint Munitions Command (JMC) supports US soldiers by supplying the right ammunition at the right place at the right time. JMC provides logistics, readiness and acquisition support for US military services, other government agencies and allied nations. A major subordinate command of the U.S. Army Materiel Command, JMC maintains a global presence of technical support to frontline units.

JMC faced long-standing challenges of efficiently managing a stockpile of munitions and equipment, along with balancing workforce size and other factors across an extensive network of storage and production facilities. Individual depots and installations, which were operating with a large degree of independence, had incentives to maximize their own workloads rather than operate for optimal efficiency across the entire command.

Limited by such systemic supply chain-constraints, JMC sought help from the George Group, a leader in process, operational and business transformation, which Accenture acquired. The consulting company could help JMC improve efficiency, military readiness and achieve high performance.

Accenture helped JMC create a detailed road map for developing an integrated supply chain.

The project team began with a deep assessment of current operations, visiting ammunition depots, and interviewing staff and key stakeholders. The team looked for systemic issues that undermined efficiency.

Envisioning a future state of operations led to a strategic framework and a 160-page Integrated Logistics Strategy Playbook. The playbook covers governance structure, planning and decision making during the budgeting and programming cycle, measurement and oversight. The project team identified several specific projects that could improve the JMC’s supply chain.

A project that began with a focus on efficiency has resulted in increased battle readiness at reduced cost. Accenture helped JMC manage the dual roles of archiving and distribution of equipment. The improvements are paving the road to a potential reduction of as much as 50 percent in transportation costs for the coming years.

With the help of Accenture, JMC is driving transformation in munitions and depot operations. After implementing an Integrated Logistics Strategy, JMC has transformed the operation both directly through improved decision-making supported by the integrated framework, and indirectly by creating a common foundation upon which to realign the organization and achieve high performance.