I call attention to a misconception among business reporters and analysts concerning the lack of expertise in the supply chain arena. A recent Wall Street Journal article The Hot New MBA: Supply Chain Management is making the rounds of various Logistics blog circles. Basically, the article tells us that there are not enough experienced logistics and Supply Chain professionals to go around. And that universities are ramping up to offer courses that will help business fill the gap. This, of course, is nonsense.
The U.S. relies on a single Chinese company for buta-netriol (BT), the chemical needed to produce the solid rocket fuel used to propel Hellfire air-to-ground missiles. Hellfire missiles are launched from attack helicopters and unmanned drones. The last U.S. producer of BT, Cytec Industries, discontinued production in 2004.
With high customer expectations for service and the need for organizations to secure business continuity, businesses must develop a collaborative approach to supply chain management. Your business must be able to orchestrate suppliers, assemblers, and distributors, creating a singular view of goods and services among all entities that touch the supply chain.
In 2004, a group of forward-thinking fashion and athletic brands with restricted substances lists (RSL), featuring such major players as Adidas, C&A, Gap, Levi's, Marks & Spencer and Nike, formed an industry working group with the aim of reducing the use and impact of harmful substances in the apparel and footwear supply chain.