"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.
The condition of emerging-market economies seems to seesaw from week to week. But one thing remains constant: the failure of a lot of companies to shore up their supply chains in those countries with up-to-date information technology.
By now, all manufacturers are fully up to speed on the Securities & Exchange Commission's new rule about disclosing the presence of conflict minerals in their products ... aren't they?
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.
SmartDrive Systems, a provider of tools for improving driving performance, reducing accidents and saving fuel, has released the SmartDrive Assurance product line.
Think of the typical corporate merger as the meeting of two ocean liners. It's tough enough to combine the crews. But how do you mash together two engine rooms?