What is distributed order management? What has changed in global markets that makes it a desirable capability? Satish Kumar, vice president of client services and technology with Softeon, has the answers.

Chad Eschinger, research vice president with Gartner, reveals the results of the firm's annual survey of what’s driving companies to make changes in their supply chains, and which technologies they're employing to achieve that goal.

"Predictive commerce" is a new concept that links customer demand data, planning and the execution of transportation. Pat Smith, general manager of ToolsGroup, tells how it was implemented at Costa Express, the U.K.'s fastest-growing coffee shop chain.

Marquis, a specialist in energy and agricultural commodities, needed a new approach to supply-chain planning and optimization. Bart Pieper, director of business technology and integration, tells how the company found the right technology vendor for the job.

Scott Olson, vice president of manufacturing and supply chain services with 3M, describes the company's approach to "disruptive technology," as well as the structure of its Center of Excellence.

Eastman Chemical wanted to shift its focus from commodity to specialty chemicals. But the change would necessitate a major transformation of the company's supply chain, and a whole new relationship with suppliers. Mike Berry, vice president of global procurement and chief procurement officer, tells how it was accomplished.

What's the definition of a high-performing supply chain today? Puneet Saxena, vice president of manufacturing solutions strategy with JDA Software, lays out the five core tenets of excellence.

With all the talk of sales and operations planning, companies still can't agree on exactly what the term means. Michael Uskert, managing vice president with Gartner, offers some clarity on the topic.

The Affordable Care Act is having a huge impact on the healthcare industry. And supply-chain is at the leading edge of the transformation. Vance Moore, vice president of operations with Mercy, talks about how the discipline is helping healthcare providers to adapt.