Applications based on service oriented architecture are enabling companies to achieve new levels of flexibility and responsiveness. Supply chain managers need to understand what the fuss is all about.

With the growth in offshore sourcing and manufacturing, supply lines have become longer, more complex and more vulnerable to disruptions. Concerned companies are meeting this challenge with a disciplined approach to supply management.

Changing market dynamics, particularly globalization of manufacturing and sourcing, are impacting the types of value-added services customers want from third-party logistics providers.

Inconsistencies in product information are significant contributors to supply chain inefficiency. Data synchronization, both internally and with trading partners, can help companies achieve and maintain one version of the truth.

Companies have more information on their customers than ever before, but most don't know if these partners are good for them - or bleeding them dry.

Moving the forecasting responsibility to a new demand-planning group enabled the Household and Body Care division of Sara Lee Corp. to greatly increase forecast accuracy and improve customer service.

Early logistics applications are exhibiting new vitality and impact as the availability of real-time information enables greater agility and cost savings.

As leather-goods manufacturer Eric Scott Ltd. and electronic-component specialist Fox Electronics have seen, collaboration leads to faster data transfer and shorter lead times.