America's chain restaurants this year plan to ask customers to dig a bit deeper into their pockets, hoping to offset higher food costs and put a bit more cash in their wallets, according the latest national menu price survey conducted by restaurant supply chain co-op SpenDifference.

Both exciting and depressing developments in the last few months should evoke some thoughtful inquiry. Any technology purchaser, in any sector, but especially in the enterprise space where the stakes are so high, should ask this question: My future is dawning. Which company will enable my path to greatness through their innovation and execution excellence?

Peas and carrots, strawberries and cream, risk management and supply chain management. OK, that last pair doesn't have the same ring to it, but I'm sure supply chain professionals are more than aware of the intrinsic relationship between the two.

Chemical production is often described, understated as it might be, as a "harsh" operating environment. Machinery, components and workers are subjected to extreme temperatures, pressures and substances as they generate end products that can be used in a multitude of ways.

According to the December 2013 national report of the Institute of Supply Management (ISM), the manufacturing industry is continuing to experience healthy growth.