Effective supply chain professionals need to be able to ensure their organizations become industry pacesetters, by better managing their supply chains to achieve reduced costs, whilst at the same time, improving service levels.
However, global trade has brought about proportionally high levels of risk and uncertainty. In turn, this uncertainty creates a risk spiral that is accompanied by increased cost and reduced levels of service. Risk is found in all supply chains, but with analysis, preparation, and action, these risks can be avoided, managed, or deflected.
Smart organizations must, therefore, find ways to manage risk, uncertainty, and variability and at the same time, look to reduce cost and improve service.