Trade automation software can help reduce total landed costs by streamlining processes and boosting productivity, then a compelling business case for investment can be made in any organization.

The enterprise wants procurement to enable global growth scenarios in 2012 while also continuing to protect supply and lower input costs, according to research conducted for The Hackett Group's annual Key Issues Study.

Have you ever bought something where price wasn't the deciding factor? A cup of coffee because it tastes better, perhaps? Or maybe a pricier mechanic's services because you trust him? Purchasing decisions in our lives aren't black and white, and they shouldn't be in corporate purchasing departments either.

Each disruption in global supply chains seems to bring a new surprise. On March 31 of this year, it was an explosion and fire at a chemical plant in Marl, Germany. The incident at the factory of Evonik Industries resulted in the deaths of two workers and caused damage that will take all summer to repair.

Proforma IdeaPress has managed to remain competitive in the market for printed promotional items, even though its plants are in the U.S. and customer requirements can be extremely complex. Company co-owner Pratt Pande tells how it's done.