Abstract: As apparel and textile companies move to outsourcing production—relinquishing direct control in favor of a more cost-effective manufacturing model—a lean supply chain may appear to be the next logical step for further implementing cost and operational improvement. Not so, however. You can’t have a lean supply chain without lean manufacturing. Regardless of whether you or your partners engage in production, lean manufacturing is the lean engine that drives lean supply chain efficiencies. Accordingly, the business requirement for stability in a constantly changing demand environment motivates the fashion industry’s search for lean supply chain management principles and practices. Intentia, in cooperation with industry experts, have written a series of thought leadership white papers on the concept of implementing lean supply chain in the fashion industry. The second of this series, From Lean Manufacturing to Lean Supply Chain explains how lean manufacturing relates to lean supply chain management and where it differs and sometimes conflicts.

Abstract: “Last-mile supply chain services” is an evolving segment of the supply chain industry, but a cutting-edge segment that has evolved as supply chain managers across the US struggle to cope with the inadequacies of the current globalized supply chain model. Learn five reasons why current supply chain models are flawed and how you can use a new architecture to balance supply chain risk, globalized sourcing, and economics.

Abstract: Advanced planning and optimization makes supply chain systems cost effective. It is the brain of the supply chain because it works on top of all other software tools that plan, monitor, and control supply chain activities and control them.

Abstract: While business for BRAIN North America continues to be positive, developments in Germany will affect its future.

Abstract: While BRAIN North America may have created a notable customer base due to its products’ functional appropriateness for the lower tiers of the automotive industry, its German parent’s impending insolvency might, in the worst-case scenario, leave all of them in the lurch.

Abstract: As long as both Agilisys and BRAIN remain focused on their industries and do not become too distracted with each other’s verticals, everyone should do well.

Abstract: Implementing technology without the proper people and processes in place only means bad service is delivered faster. Indeed, the employee brain trust is critical to succeeding in today’s knowledge economy and customer-centric environment. Yet according to numerous industry analysts, a staggering 55 to 70 percent of customer relationship management (CRM) and contact center projects fail to meet their objectives. Why?

Abstract: November 2, 1999 05:30 PM BARNEVELD, Netherlands and HERNDON, Va., Nov. 2 /PRNewswire/ -- Baan Company N.V., a global provider of enterprise business solutions, today announced the release of two major new additions to its Supply Chain Solutions suite: Baan Supply Chain Solutions Planner 2.0 for factory planning, and Baan Supply Chain Solutions Order Promising 1.0 for order acceptance. The two solutions provide advanced supply chain and logistics capabilities that enable manufacturing professionals to increase throughput, reduce inventory, improve supply chain visibility, and improve response time and service levels to customers.

Abstract: Historically, companies have invested in tactical and operational supply chain technology solutions. These solutions helped model and operate existing supply chains, without addressing overall supply chain design and strategy. Companies are increasingly turning to strategic solutions such as supply chain design and optimization (SCDO) to help satisfy customer demand while balancing limitations on supply and the need for operational efficiency.

Abstract: As companies struggle to control costs, the supply chain and management of supply resources have come under scrutiny. The supply chain is one area where a company can achieve quick gains and receive a fast return on investment.

Abstract: Optimizing supply chain management processes to work more closely with trading partners, requires enterprises to act together as interdependent supply networks. The development of service oriented architecture will be crucial in achieving the necessary flexibility characterizing such networked supply chains.

Abstract: The benefits of implementing a manufacturing system are well known and well documented, but there are many factors to consider when selecting a system. Companies seeking to automate their manufacturing systems, wanting to upgrade entry-level software, or seeking new technology need to ask themselves serious questions to determine if and what type of enterprise resource planning (ERP) system to get. Learn how to assess if you need a new ERP system for your process manufacturing environment.

Abstract: Have you come to the conclusion that your company needs a supply chain planning system? Do you need to provide management and other key decision makers with reasons why you need a supply chain planning system? One way that a supply chain planning system can help you is by enforcing best practices and processes. Get more details on this and 10 other reasons why you should implement a supply chain system that works for you.

Abstract: As time passes, enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems drift further and further into misalignment with enterprise goals, strategies, and tactics. Eventually your legacy ERP system begins to interfere with your company’s ability to operate efficiently. Examine ERP evaluation criteria and techniques, and equip yourself with the tools and knowledge you need to measure your current ERP system’s effectiveness.

Abstract: Companies are going global because the risk of not doing so greatly outweighs the comfort that staying domestic brings. According to a World Trade Organization (WTO) report issued in October 2004, 'Despite the rise in oil prices the volume of world trade is likely to grow by 8.5% in real terms by the end of 2004.' The liberalization of trade, the reduction of tariffs, the elimination of quotas, the continued rise in China as an industrial force, and the rise of outsourcing as a cost reduction opportunity, all create an environment that is full of opportunity and fraught with hazards. The ability to effectively manage global commerce will be a key strategic competitive differentiator. Global commerce management (GCM) is what is required by companies to win in this tougher, more competitive environment.

Abstract: Here we are in the New Year. So, what should the going forward picture be of the Supply Chain portfolio? Something old, something new, something from a service provider, something blue. OK, enough of that.

Abstract: Streamlining your supply chain can boost revenue, reduce costs, and help grow your business. No matter what business you’re in, the days of managing your supply chain from the back office are over. Today’s successful companies understand that lean supply chains maximize revenue and help stimulate growth—and their top executives aren’t afraid to wield their supply chains like weapons.

Abstract: True multi-service, multi-vendor global networks are the future of the telecommunications industry. However, mazes of international standards and protocols can create barriers rather than solutions. For service providers and system suppliers alike, implementing standards for interoperability is far from simple. The MultiService Switching Forum (MSF) fills the void by developing implementation agreements that take standards from theory into practice.