Digital platforms, applications and processes are rapidly changing how shipping and transportation companies operate. Our primary research study confirmed that while acknowledging the importance of a Web-based business model, many shipping companies are proceeding cautiously. Based on our analysis of the e-commerce market and the approaches that some companies are taking, we have defined a maturity framework to help shippers better assess their current capabilities and plan ahead.

For players in the automobile market, aftermarket parts and services is a valuable adjunct to car sales, but this sector is changing rapidly due to market conditions. We offer a schema based on willingness to pay for parts and for service to guide OEMs and other players in their spare parts and secondary market strategies.

For institutions in higher education, including those that rely on grants, procurement is traditionally a complex, decentralized process that consumes time and resources. By establishing an automated, integrated procurement platform (e-procurement) as part of an ERP-based supply chain, institutions can maximize the time and value of professors and principal investigators, make more funds available for research, and provide students with the level of education they seek.

ISO standards for identification of medical products (IDMP) are set to require pharmaceuticals companies to comply with medicinal identification standards. We explain how to get started and navigate a smooth IDMP transition.

Across a range of industries, realization of cost optimization requires a holistic approach throughout the product lifecycle - requirements, design, manufacture and post-launch - in order to weed out cost overruns and ensure the highest quality process and products.

By eliminating intermediaries and by enabling smart contracts with embedded, trusted business rules, blockchain offers extraordinary opportunities for manufacturing on every level of the supply chain.  To profitably ride this wave of disruptive innovation, any stakeholder in the manufacturing value chain should be familiar with the basics and guidelines for proceeding.

Serialization and track-and-trace capabilities are not just useful for meeting regulatory compliance mandates; pharmaceutical companies can also explore their use to improve supply chain planning and operations, elevate patient engagement, and increase sales and marketing effectiveness.

To reduce the business impact of U.S. port shutdowns, retailers need a framework to help them assess their global supply chain capabilities and make decisions that ensure a consistent supply of imported goods.

By embracing the latest modeling and simulation techniques, organizations can more accurately forecast true capacity, identify and eliminate bottlenecks and develop optimal solutions for their supply chains.

An effective supply chain is the key to creating business value. This paper will help you benchmark your performance today and take a methodical organizational approach to improving your supply chain effectiveness.