The Supply Chain is Not the Problem

摘要

As I Begin focusing on the New Year, I can't help but reflect at least a little on the year just ended. I spent a lot of time in various meetings, workshops, presentations and industry gatherings focused on supply-chain issues. In each one, it seemed everyone was frustrated with the state of the supply chain. As I look forward to 2012,1 see that same frustration-driven mantra escalating. That said, I really believe the supply chain itself is not the problem. Instead, the problem - a major one, at that - is how Procurement is failing to change with the times. From OEMs at the theoretical top of the supply chain, through assembly and fabrication, right down to material and equipment suppliers, many (especially the large, sophisticated North American "Tier 1" companies) approach the supply chain as if Dwight Eisenhower were still president.