Supply Chain Force Multipliers

摘要

For years, I've wanted the Logistics Planner issue theme to focus on the concept of using inbound logistics as a force multiplier. When I entered the conference room for the Planner issue strategy meeting this year, I was ready to make my case. But when I presented my idea to the editorial team, I was met with blank stares, and a question: What is a force multiplier and what does it have to do with adopting demand-driven logistics practices? Force multipliers, I explained, are things that reduce the amount of applied force necessary to move an object. The gears on a mountain bike, for example, are a force multiplier, and without them yours truly would not be able to get up the mountain, much less survive getting down.