July 2023 - rfxcel.com

Antares Vision Group Attains ISO/IEC 27001 Cybersecurity Certification for Serialization and Global Regulatory Compliance

Obtained through rfxcel, the information security management systems certification demonstrates the Group’s ability to protect and manage customers’ data on a global scale, complementing rfxcel’s ISO 9001 certification.

Travagliato (Brescia), July 11, 2023. Antares Vision Group (EXM, AV:IM), a leading provider of track and trace and quality control systems, through rfxcel’s San Ramon location, has attained ISO/IEC 27001 certification for information security management systems (ISMS), an important and significant achievement in the supply chain software solutions industry.

The certification demonstrates rfxcel’s incorporation of best-in-class technologies and best practices to preserve the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of customer data while proactively managing risks. As customers globally share serialization and other supply chain data, their needs for security, system controls, and governance grows. rfxcel’s  continuous advancements within its controls and technology help customers comply with international security standards and regulations.

rfxcel Vice President of Global Quality Management Amit Sewak said the certification is a clear statement. “It means we are committed to protecting our clients from global security threats. We have an incredible organization that is focused on developing and delivering secure solutions that focus on our customers’ needs and the complex regulatory landscape they function within.”

Sewak added that the ISO/IEC 27001 certification confirms that the structure of rfxcel’s Quality Management System and ISMS exemplifies compliance internationally. “Regardless of the regulatory standards that clients function within, rfxcel is prepared today and for the future,” he said.

Glenn Abood, CEO of rfxcel, said the certification should give customers peace of mind about working with Antares Vision Group. “We have strategies to manage the performance, quality, and effectiveness of our products and services,” he explained. “Our customers have the assurance that their data is strictly controlled, stored, and protected.”

In addition to the ISO/IEC 27001 certification, rfxcel’s existing ISO 9001 certification conveys its commitment to customers and continual improvement. “Our customers know our management systems and architecture are efficient. They know we perform at a high level and use leading technologies to support them,” Sewak said.

For more information, contact rfxcel Senior Communications and Content Manager Garrison Spik at garrison@rfxcel.com.

About Antares Vision Group

Antares Vision Group is driving digitalization of products and supply chains by leading traceability, inspection, and integrated data management. AV Group helps companies and institutions to achieve safety, quality, efficiency, and sustainability, enabling Trustparency™. DIAMIND, AV Group’s integrated ecosystem of solutions, simplifies the technology environment and supports businesses growth by enabling a data-driven and tailored journey to digital innovation. Connecting physical products with digital identities, DIAMIND runs at the line, factory, warehouse, enterprise, and supply chain levels, and guarantees product quality (inspection systems and equipment) and end-to-end traceability (from raw materials to production, from distribution to the consumer and back) through integrated data management, applying artificial intelligence and potentially blockchain. AV Group operates in the Life Science (pharmaceuticals, medical devices, and hospitals), Beverage, Food, Cosmetics, Chemicals, and Packaging industries and potentially many others. AV Group has been listed in STAR segment of Euronext since 14 May 2021 and has been included in the Euronext Tech Leaders index, dedicated to leading tech companies with high growth potential, since July 2022. In 2022, Antares Vision Group recorded a turnover of €223 million. The Group operates in 60 countries, employs more than 1,100 people, and has a consolidated network of over 40 international partners. For further information, visit www.antaresvisiongroup.com.

The Ultimate Guide to Supply Chain Visibility: Enhancing Efficiency and Performance

The ability to monitor each part of your supply chain helps your business mitigate risk, serve customers better, and work more efficiently. Find out more about the importance of supply chain visibility in this guide from Antares Vision Group and rfxcel.

Understanding Supply Chain Visibility

Modern business operations require a high level of coordination and logistics. A company may source raw materials from one location, have a manufacturing facility in another location, and deliver products to customers all over the world. To produce, package, and ship goods efficiently, they need a centralized tracking system.

Supply chain visibility traces a product from its raw materials and through the manufacturing process to the point at which it reaches a customer’s doorstep. A visibility solution allows a business to track all its goods through every step in the supply chain. Supply chain visibility can:

  • Increase efficiency
  • Ensure customer satisfaction
  • Inform decision-making
  • Improve sustainability

Ultimately, visibility – or lack thereof – affects your bottom line.

Benefits of Supply Chain Visibility

To stay competitive in today’s globalized economy, businesses need efficient systems for monitoring supply and demand. Supply chain visibility benefits include:

  • Tracking: Real-time tracking and traceability tools streamline inventory management, offering automation for many routine tasks.
  • Efficiency: Visibility tools enhance the accuracy of demand forecasting and reduce the likelihood of stockouts.
  • Risk management: Full visibility means that teams can respond more quickly when there is a supply chain disruption, mitigating the risk and minimizing delays.
  • Optimization and better collaboration: Supply chain management systems help companies communicate better with suppliers, optimizing relationships and fostering collaboration.

Key Components of Supply Chain Visibility

Although supply chain visibility systems may differ from company to company, they all focus on transparency at each node of the supply chain. This includes:

  • Inventory visibility: Companies can track and manage inventory levels and procurement across all their locations.
  • Transportation visibility: All products in transit can be tracked and monitored in real time.
  • Demand visibility: Robust supply chain network data allows businesses to understand customer patterns and forecast demand more accurately.
  • Supplier visibility: Real-time visibility tools allow you to monitor supplier performance and ensure timely deliveries.
  • Data visibility: By collecting information about inventory, transportation times, and more, companies can turn data analytics into actionable insights and adjust workflows or supply chain processes.

Implementing Supply Chain Visibility

Putting supply chain visibility tools into place takes time and effort, but it’s well worth the benefits you’ll reap in operational efficiency and better business performance. To implement supply chain visibility, start by assessing your current systems. Look for areas of improvement across the supply chain – have you experienced stockouts in a particular product line? Do you struggle to meet customer demand at a certain time of year?

Next, look for the right technology solutions that can enhance visibility across your entire ecosystem. Perhaps you have a good system in place for monitoring customer orders but need a better way to manage suppliers. Look for supply chain software that can integrate with your existing systems and address gaps in visibility.

You need a seamless flow of information across your technology platforms. Additionally, prioritize data security in any supply chain visibility initiative. Compliance with data privacy regulations is a must for your company, as well as any suppliers, shippers, or distributors you work with.

Best Practices for Supply Chain Visibility

Whether you work in pharmaceuticals or food and beverage, certain practices will improve visibility across the entire supply chain. These include:

  • Metrics: Have a clear set of goals and metrics in place that you will use to measure your success.
  • Collaboration: Build strong partnerships with suppliers to enhance transparency and efficiency.
  • Technology: Invest in cloud-based platforms and advanced analytics tools with built-in supply chain security.

Above all, adopt a proactive approach to risk management and contingency planning. While some supply chain disruptions are out of your control, having a plan in place will make it easier to minimize inefficiencies and shortages.

Overcoming Challenges in Supply Chain Visibility

Even with the best-laid plans, you may face roadblocks when trying to improve end-to-end supply chain visibility. Potential challenges include:

  • Supply chain data quality issues and data silos
  • Resistance to change and organizational barriers
  • Regulatory compliance and data privacy concerns

Managing a significant volume of data, especially when you are working in the context of a complex global supply chain with multiple partners and stakeholders, can feel overwhelming. That’s why it’s so important to find supply chain visibility software that integrates with all your data collection systems. You should look for a software service provider that is well-versed in regulatory compliance and has built-in data protections.

Understand that even when you choose an intuitive, user-friendly system, you’re likely to face pushback from some employees or partners. Plan a thoughtful implementation and roll-out process, with time built in for staff training. This will help address any concerns.

The Future of Supply Chain Visibility

Emerging technologies and digital transformation are changing the supply chain management landscape. Already, we’re seeing the value of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning in supply chain software solutions. AI-powered tools can analyze real-time data to inform forecasting, using predictive analytics to inform orders, pricing, warehouse placement, and more.

The Internet of Things (IoT) and blockchain technology are also shaping supply chain visibility. By giving all supply chain stakeholders access to the same information, blockchain tools can potentially reduce fraud and data errors while improving communication. And the proliferation of IoT devices means that real-time tracking is easier throughout order processing and delivery.

We’ll Help You Achieve Supply Chain Visibility

We offer supply chain visibility solutions that prioritize efficiency and compliance management. With offices in the United States and abroad, we serve clients in sectors including:

  • Pharmaceuticals
  • Food
  • Beverage
  • Consumer goods
  • Government

For information on our supply chain visibility tools or to request pricing, contact us today.

The Power of Supply Chain Visibility Tools: Revolutionizing Efficiency and Transparency

Today’s businesses work all over the world. Companies need sophisticated tools to track and monitor products as they move through the supply chain. Learn more about supply chain visibility tools and solutions in this guide from Antares Vision Group and rfxcel.

Understanding Supply Chain Visibility Tools

At its core, supply chain visibility is the ability to track raw materials, individual parts, and finished products, regardless of where they are located or what phase of production they are in. Visibility and connectivity are critical in modern supply chain management, as suppliers and distributors can be located in different regions or even different countries. Businesses use supply chain planning software to monitor orders in transit, reduce lead times, and send notifications to stakeholders.

Supply chain traceability systems help companies monitor each step of product manufacturing and shipping. These tools can identify weaknesses or communication breakdowns, plan for inventory shortages and procurement needs, and resolve minor issues before they become bigger supply chain disruptions. Plus, these tools improve accountability and transparency throughout a business, including with partners. Ultimately, the goal of using these tools is to optimize operational efficiency and supply chain performance.

Benefits of Supply Chain Visibility Tools

Implementing supply chain traceability software offers many benefits:

  • Monitor products: Companies have access to real-time tracking and monitoring of their inventory, orders, and shipments.
  • Traceability: Individual products and shipments can be traced from start to finish, helping to ensure orders arrive on time.
  • Efficiency: With real-time visibility tools, supply chain managers can improve demand forecasting, allow for better inventory management, and minimize inefficiencies.
  • Better business relationships: Companies can enhance their collaboration and communication with suppliers and other providers over the long term.
  • Risk management: With visibility tools, companies can identify supply chain issues and address them head-on, lowering their risk profile and improving their relationships with consumers and service providers.

Key Features of Supply Chain Visibility Software and Tools

Most supply chain management tools have a few key features in common. These include:

  • Real-time supply chain visibility: Shipments can be geolocated and monitored at each stage of supply chain processes, allowing for tracking and tracing in real time.
  • Inventory visibility: Companies can monitor and manage inventory levels at each business location through user-friendly dashboards.
  • Data analytics and reporting: Visibility software collects and analyzes data to provide actionable, real-time insights and streamline supply chain operations. This can help improve order management and planning for replenishment as needed.
  • Collaboration and communication: Visibility tools make it easier for employees across the supply chain to communicate with each other and with trading partners and other stakeholders. This helps break down departmental silos.

Implementing Supply Chain Visibility Solutions

With so many different ways to approach supply chain visibility, it can be difficult to know where to start. Be intentional in your implementation process to reduce pushback:

  • Assess: Start by evaluating your supply chain requirements and current pain points. What’s working well, and what isn’t?
  • Evaluate: Create a list of functionality requirements for your supply chain visibility software. Compare available tools against your set of needs to select the right supply chain visibility tool for your business.
  • Implement: Integrate the tool you choose with your existing systems and data sources so you’re not reinventing the wheel.
  • Train: Set aside ample time for onboarding employees who will be using the new system.

Best Practices for Utilizing Supply Chain Visibility Tools

When it comes to global supply chain visibility platforms, there’s no one-size-fits-all solution. Whether you choose a cloud-based SaaS application or an on-premise platform, there are a few best practices that can make the implementation process smoother:

  • Define clear objectives and metrics for measuring success at your organization.
  • Establish standardized data formats and processes across the entire supply chain.
  • Encourage collaboration and information sharing among all logistics service partners and other third parties.
  • Continuously monitor your tracking processes to improve data quality and workflows.

Ensuring Data Security and Privacy in Supply Chain Visibility

Although sharing real-time data with outside partners and shippers can improve supply chain efficiency and optimization, it also carries a degree of inherent risk. Ensuring data security and protecting your privacy, as well as that of your customers, is paramount.

Look for visibility software that offers high-level, customizable security settings. You should implement secure data-sharing protocols and access controls across all supplier, manufacturer, and distributor partnerships. Any third party that your business works with must know how to comply with the relevant data protection regulations for your sector, such as the European Union’s General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR).

The Future of End-to-End Supply Chain Visibility Tools

As artificial intelligence (AI) and Internet of Things (IoT) technology improve, companies will have even more granular control over the supply chain ecosystem and can incorporate automation. Predictive analytics and machine learning have the potential to help with proactive decision-making to improve demand planning and reduce transportation management challenges. Additionally, as more and more industries adopt blockchain technology, companies will be better equipped to minimize fraud and waste.

Find the Best Supply Chain Visibility Software

To stay competitive in today’s dynamic market landscape, businesses need customizable, sophisticated enterprise resource planning (ERP) tools that drive efficiency and improve customer satisfaction. Antares Vision Group provides tailored solutions to improve supply chain management, prioritizing efficiency without sacrificing quality.

Our software offers end-to-end visibility, providing traceability at each step with an eye toward sustainability. We even offer blockchain-based supply chain traceability solutions. Our solutions work with pharmaceutical, food, beverage, and consumer goods companies all over the world. For more information about our supply chain visibility platform, contact rfxcel today.

Compliance Management Solutions: Ensuring Regulatory Compliance and Risk Mitigation

Does your business have effective compliance management solutions and risk management solutions in place? In a constantly changing regulatory landscape, companies need sophisticated tools to manage their governance, risk, and compliance (GRC) efforts and reduce their risk exposure. Learn about compliance management implementation and best practices in this guide from rfxcel.

Understanding Compliance Management Solutions

Compliance management refers to the set of policies and procedures that an organization uses to ensure adherence to the laws and regulations that govern their industry. Compliance management solutions aim to:

  • Identify and prevent violations
  • Improve business practices
  • Build and maintain consumer confidence
  • Ensure ethical behavior in the industry

Compliance requirements vary by sector and country. For example, in the United States pharmaceutical companies must adhere to the Drug Supply Chain Security Act (DSCSA) and in the European Union they’re bound by the Falsified Medicines Directive (EU FMD). Food companies in the United States must comply with rules under the Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA).

Regulatory compliance is a requirement, not a goal. Businesses that are found to be out of compliance can face harsh consequences, including corporate sanctions and government-issued fines. Plus, they run the risk of damaging their reputation and losing customers. Non-compliance can also result in costly corrective actions, such as recalling a product.

Many companies now rely on software solutions to manage and centralize their compliance efforts. Compliance software offers tracking and audit tools to ensure business practices align with applicable laws and regulations. This helps reduce manual errors and provides ongoing monitoring throughout the organization.

Benefits of Compliance Management Solutions

In addition to ensuring adherence to industry regulations and standards, effective compliance management solutions offer a range of benefits, including:

  • Reduced risk: Effective management processes minimize the legal and financial risks associated with non-compliance.
  • Efficiency: Compliance management software can streamline routine tasks and reduce manual processes, freeing up staff to focus on other priorities.
  • Security: A good compliance solution will also have safeguards in place to protect data privacy and improve cybersecurity.
  • Cost savings: A risk and compliance solution can flag risks before they cause financial implications.

Key Features of Compliance Management Solutions

If your business is in the market for a new compliance management platform, look for a solution that includes these features:

  • Compliance tracking and monitoring: Your software should manage a centralized repository of the relevant regulations and requirements for your industry.
  • Policy management: Compliance management solutions can help teams develop, update, and communicate standardized policies across your organization.
  • Risk assessment and mitigation: Proactive identification and management of compliance risks can help companies avoid fines, fees, and sanctions.
  • Data insights: Companies can review compliance activities in real time and generate compliance reports that aid in decision-making.
  • Audit management: A centralized platform streamlines the audit process and can track corrective actions.
  • Awareness: Compliance management tools help you manage ongoing employee training and awareness programs.

Implementing Compliance Management Solutions

Proper implementation is key when introducing compliance management software solutions. Start with a comprehensive needs assessment: What are your organizational priorities? Which regulatory requirements apply to your business? Use the findings from your assessment to guide your software selection process. Look for a compliance management platform that:

  • Integrates with your existing software systems and data sources
  • Can be customized to align with specific regulatory requirements
  • Has a good user experience and is easy to navigate

Ideally, the software platform you choose should automate compliance processes to reduce administrative burden, saving your organization time and money.

Best Practices for Effective Compliance Management

Utilize these best practices at your enterprise to make your compliance program more effective:

  • Organizational culture: Establish a culture of compliance. Plan for ongoing training to keep compliance requirements top-of-mind for staff.
  • Internal audits: Conduct regular compliance assessments and gap analyses to identify areas for improvement.
  • Coordination: Build a cross-functional compliance team to provide comprehensive oversight that includes stakeholders from HR, legal, and finance departments.
  • Workflow management: Implement automated workflows and utilize notifications to ensure the timely completion of required compliance tasks.

Ensuring Data Security and Privacy Compliance

An important aspect of compliance management is addressing data protection regulations, which dictate how companies in a wide range of industries (e.g., healthcare and financial services) handle consumer data and personally identifiable information (PII). Data protection regulations include laws such as:

Companies must implement data access controls, encryption measures, and other protections to reduce the likelihood of a data breach. Additionally, if you work with third-party vendors, you need a system for setting up data-sharing agreements. Any third parties with which you contract must comply with your industry’s regulatory requirements and have adequate privacy and security protections in place.

The Future of Compliance Management Solutions

As more and more companies embrace digital transformation and implement distributed or hybrid work structures, compliance needs will continue to shift along with an evolving regulatory landscape. Additionally, newer developments in artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning will make automated compliance monitoring more sophisticated. AI technology is already improving predictive analytics, which draws on historical data to identify patterns and make predictions that guide future business decisions.

Choose Us for Expert Compliance Management

By leveraging effective compliance management solutions, businesses can streamline their compliance processes, mitigate risks, and maintain regulatory adherence. With us, you can implement a robust compliance management system to navigate regulatory changes and help your organization work more effectively. We offer complete compliance solutions, with software that’s designed to meet the needs of specific industries including:

To get started or request pricing, contact us today.