So different from those of the past, today's supply chains require new strategy, analysis and planning, says Steve Martin, vice president of supply chain excellence at Ryder System. He discusses current marketplace realities and their impact on sourcing, sustainability, and inventory optimization in the midst of unpredictable demand.

Following a number of recalls due to tainted products, the government is getting involved in the process of ensuring food safety throughout the supply chain. Tom Kozenski, vice president of product strategy with RedPrairie Corp., discusses how companies should respond.

There's a wealth of valuable data flowing through any company's supply chain. But managers within each discipline need a way to avoid being inundated with information that isn't critical to their job functions, says Steve Hensley, president of Blue Sky Technologies Inc.