Around the world, virtually every company is engaged in some form of effort intended to improve the processing that takes place across an end-to-end supply chain system as they work towards moving their organizations to the next level of performance. Supply chain, particularly when enhanced with collaboration and Internet technology, is uniquely suited to helping an organization increase profits and decrease costs. A comprehensive guide to adding value to supply chain efforts, Using Models to Improve the Supply Chain demonstrates how leading firms have successfully integrated their supply chains and how they plan further progress through supply chain evolution.

Using both generic and specific models, the author carefully explains just what's required for each function of the supply chain and outlines what takes place form lower to higher levels of progress. He emphasizes establishing the pathway to success, then finding the correct models to guide the effort, and finally, implementing with the right combination of technology and collaboration, the elements that set one supply chain apart from another in the eyes of the customers and consumers. He explores the importance of business-to-business commerce or business-to-business-to-consumer commerce, enabled by cyber techniques as a central concept in any future business strategy.

Although some firms have come close, no firm has yet mastered all of the techniques and tool required to claim the dominant position. Selecting and applying the correct models can only enhance the odds of being the eventual ultimate leader in a particular industry. A practical guide for moving your supply chain effort forward, Using Models to Improve the Supply Chain provides the missing links needed to reach the necessary level of achievement.

The true promise and benefits of Supply Chain Management elude many organizations. Cultural limitations, a narrow view of the opportunities offered by and the need to access external resources juxtaposed with a lack of understanding of how technology can enhance business processes create resistance. The Supply Chain Manager's Problem-Solver: Maximizing the Value of Collaboration and Technology explores the benefits of a full network approach and illustrates specific actions that lead to success. The author uses case studies to validate the concepts and solutions, provides an easy to understand and apply methodology for getting to higher levels of progress, and explores areas of potential technology application that often get overlooked.