Every organization has a different level of supply chain complexity, so there is no one right answer to this question. Some signs that a supply chain network optimization could be needed are: An extended period has passed since an optimization was performed Product portfolios have changed Issues with inventory levels and costs New mergers and acquisitions With increasingly competitive markets, supply chain optimization is critical. Many companies are now giving up on more tedious processes in favor of outsourcing supply chain network optimization to experts who use simulation software to prepare and populate models quickly.