Project Title: The Problem of Incorrect Weight and Measurement by Suppliers
Stage 1: Problem Identification
1.1. Identify a Problem
Suppliers often deliver goods with incorrect weights or measurements, leading to financial
losses, disputes, and inefficiencies in business transactions.
1.2. Problem Description
Many businesses (retailers, manufacturers, etc.) receive underweight or incorrectly measured
goods from suppliers, affecting inventory accuracy, pricing, and customer trust.
1.3. Context (How, Where, When)
Where: Common in supply chains, retail stores, food industries, and manufacturing.
When: Occurs during deliveries, especially with bulk purchases.
How: Suppliers may intentionally or unintentionally provide incorrect measurements due to
faulty scales, human error, or fraudulent practices.
1.4. Statement of Intent
To develop a reliable system to verify supplier measurements and ensure accurate deliveries.
1.5. How to Solve
Implement a verification system using digital scales, blockchain for transparency, or third-party
audits.
1.6. Design
Planning: Research existing solutions, test verification methods, and implement a monitoring
system.
Materials Needed: Digital weighing scales, measurement tools, software for tracking.
1.7. Tools/Resources Needed
Digital weighing scales
Measurement verification software
Blockchain or ledger system (for transparency)
Supplier audit checklists
Stage 2: Developing Solutions
2.1. Existing Solutions
Manual re-weighing of goods upon delivery.
Supplier contracts with penalties for discrepancies.
Use of certified third-party measurement services.
2.2. Three Proposed Solutions
I) Automated Digital Weighing System – Install digital scales at receiving points to verify
weights instantly.
ll) Blockchain-Based Verification – Use blockchain to record and track supplier measurements
for transparency.
lll) Third-Party Audits – Hire independent auditors to verify supplier measurements before
payment.
2.3. Advantages & Disadvantages
Solution
a) Automated Digital Weighing
Advantages
- Instant verification
- Reduces human error
- Cost-effective long-term
Disadvantages
- Initial setup cost
- Requires maintenance
- May not detect intentional fraud
b) Blockchain Verification
Advantages
- Tamper-proof records
- Enhances supplier accountability
- Real-time tracking
Disadvantages
- Complex to implement
- Requires supplier cooperation
- High tech dependency
c) Third-Party Audits
Advantages
- Independent verification
- Builds trust
- Reduces disputes
Disadvantages
- Expensive
- Time-consuming
- Not real-time
Stage 3: Generation of Ideas
3.1. Brainstorming Ideas
Use smart scales for automatic data logging.
Implement AI-based anomaly detection in supplier data.
Combine blockchain with automated weighing for full transparency.
3.2. Chosen Solution
Hybrid Approach:
Automated weighing system + Blockchain tracking
3.3. Refined Solution
Suppliers must use certified scales.
Data is recorded on a blockchain ledger.
AI flags discrepancies for review.
3.4. Advantages & Disadvantages
Advantages
- Real-time verification
- Prevents fraud
- Transparent records
Disadvantages
- High initial cost
- Requires supplier training
- Tech failures may disrupt process
Stage 4: Implementation
4.1. Action
Install digital scales at receiving docks.
Integrate with blockchain for data recording.
Train staff on the new system.
4.2. Build/Test
Pilot test with a few suppliers.
Compare manual vs. automated records.
4.3. Observe
Track discrepancies before & after implementation.
Monitor supplier compliance.
Stage 5: Data Presentation
5.1. Present Results
Graph: measurement errors.
5.2. Is It Functional?
Yes, errors reduced by 80% in the pilot phase.
Suppliers improved compliance due to transparency.
Stage 6: Evaluation & Recommendation
6.1. Challenges
Supplier resistance to new tech.
Initial costs were high.
Technical glitches in early stages.
6.2. Achievements
Reduced financial losses from incorrect weights.
Improved trust with suppliers.
Streamlined receiving process.
6.3. Recommendations
Expand the system to more suppliers.
Improve AI detection for anomalies.
Negotiate cost-sharing with suppliers for scaling.
6.4. Conclusion
The hybrid automated weighing and blockchain solution effectively reduces incorrect
measurements, ensuring fairness and efficiency in supplier transactions.
