The aerospace giant Pratt & Whitney plans to double production of a new and innovative jet engine by 2020. Proper supply-chain management will play a huge role in the success of the venture.

When a supplier makes a major change to its corporate structure, brand name, and/or go-to-market strategy, the implications for its distributor base can be significant. In most cases, these changes present both challenges and opportunities for the companies that are out on the front lines selling the manufacturer's products on a daily basis.

Jump Technologies Inc., a software vendor specializing in applications for supply management in hospitals, has developed the new JumpStock module for operating rooms (ORs).

U.S. intelligence officials are planning to provide information including classified threat reports to companies about the risks of hacking and other crimes tied to the supplies and services they buy.

Within complex global supply chains, there are more opportunities than ever before for disruption, especially with regard to the health of key suppliers. Companies must find ways to keep tabs on those crucial partners, with an eye toward heading off disaster.

A conversation with corporate thought leaders about the growing awareness of the need for a vigorous supply-chain risk-management effort, and how they're working to achieve that goal.