Global Supply Chain Management

Pharmaceutical Heists on the Wane in Number and in Value of Drugs Stolen. Why?

November 30, 2012

The average size of each pharmaceutical theft incident in U.S. so far in 2012 has been about $120,000. Compare that to just four years ago, in 2009, when the average incident resulted in losses of about $4m. That is an astonishing reduction of more than 30 times in just four years. Furthermore, the number of incidents during the same period has been cut in half. What is the cause of this phenomenal success?

Improve Your Supply Chain Performance with Network Analytics

November 30, 2012

Siddharth Taparia, Senior Director of Portfolio and Strategic Marketing, SAP

In today's rapidly changing market, companies are increasingly competing on the efficiency, effectiveness and agility of their supply chains. Much has been written about the agility of Apple's supply chain - a recent article in The New York Times highlighted this when they described how Apple switched from plastic to glass screen six weeks before the launch - and in that time-frame they had to find a new supplier, perfect the fabrication of samples, and get to production-level volume. In a recent Gartner survey Apple was at the top of the list in key metrics, including inventory turns (Samsung's inventory turn was 17.1, while Apple's was 74.1).

How an Evolving China Is Affecting Global Supply Chains

November 30, 2012

SupplyChainBrain

China is transforming itself from a source of low-cost manufacturing for western consumers to a potentially huge market for domestic production. Ron Tarter, senior vice president and general manager of Flextronics, discusses how his company and others are adjusting to the shift.

Cost Modeling Can Dramatically Reduce Procurement Expense

November 30, 2012

Inside Supply Management

Projected cost modeling can help supply management organizations reduce procurement costs and generate information that could improve cost performance throughout the supply chain. Supply management professionals are aware that cost is often an important factor in making an informed business decision. And cost models can turn cost data into cost information, which can help organizations make better business decisions.

Study Finds Growing Recognition Among Consumers of Their Buying Habits on Environment

November 30, 2012

Environmental Leader

Two thirds of consumers in six countries recognize the need to consume less and purchase products that are good for the environment and society, according to an online survey.