Supply chain and manufacturing
Learn how technology can optimize your supply chain, logistics and manufacturing processes. Explore how the internet of things, AI and blockchain are bringing new efficiencies and how ERP software can help with supply chain operations and improve product delivery. Here you'll also find overviews on important supply chain management concepts.
Top Stories
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Feature
12 Apr 2024
5 use cases for edge computing in manufacturing
Edge computing's capabilities can help improve various aspects of manufacturing operations and save companies time and money. Learn some potential use cases. Continue Reading
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Feature
11 Apr 2024
Industrial 3D printing matures but faces steep climb ahead
Industrial 3D printing vendors are bolstering their products just as use cases and factors such as supply chain disruptions show the technology's usefulness. Continue Reading
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Tip
30 May 2023
MRP vs. MRP II: Learn the differences
MRP II software gives companies much greater control over their scheduling and production processes than MRP software. Learn more about MRP vs. MRP II. Continue Reading
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Tip
22 May 2023
ERP and APS: What are the differences?
Manufacturing companies may find their ERP software isn't fulfilling their needs. Learn how APS can help with challenges like capacity planning and what-if scenarios. Continue Reading
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Feature
22 May 2023
ChatGPT in the current manufacturing landscape
Industry leaders in manufacturing must understand the challenges posed by ChatGPT and other generative AI technologies to overcome them and reap AI's benefits. Continue Reading
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Tip
17 May 2023
Use cases show the combined potential of AI and blockchain
AI and blockchain are both hot topics in IT, yet used for different purposes. However, enterprises across various sectors can now combine both technologies to their advantage. Continue Reading
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Definition
12 May 2023
cross-docking
Cross-docking is the practice of unloading goods from inbound delivery vehicles and loading them directly onto outbound vehicles. Continue Reading
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Definition
28 Apr 2023
business sustainability
Business sustainability, also known as corporate sustainability, is the management of environmental, social and financial concerns by a company to ensure responsible, ethical and ongoing success. Continue Reading
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Feature
28 Apr 2023
3D printing has a complex relationship with sustainability
3D printing promises some sustainability benefits, including creating lighter parts and shorter supply chains, but the overall question of its environmental value is complex. Continue Reading
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Definition
27 Apr 2023
value stream mapping
Value stream mapping is a lean manufacturing tool that visualizes every repeatable step required to deliver a product or service to the customer. Continue Reading
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Tip
27 Apr 2023
7 3PL KPIs that can help you evaluate success
Supply chain leaders should look at some particular KPIs to determine whether their company's 3PL provider is meeting their needs. Learn the most helpful KPIs. Continue Reading
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Definition
27 Apr 2023
greenwashing
Greenwashing is a term used to describe a false, misleading or untrue action or set of claims made by an organization about the positive impact that a company, product or service has on the environment. Continue Reading
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News
26 Apr 2023
Advanced technologies fuel supply chain 'magic conveyor belt'
In this Q&A, MIT's Yossi Sheffi discusses the complexities of modern supply chains and how AI, automation and robotics will affect the future of supply chain employment. Continue Reading
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Definition
21 Apr 2023
order management
Order management is the administration of business processes related to orders for goods or services. Continue Reading
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Tip
21 Apr 2023
ERP and SCM: Understand the differences
Some companies' supply chain management needs may not be fulfilled by their ERP software, so they may require SCM software. Learn more about ERP and SCM software. Continue Reading
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Definition
13 Apr 2023
prototype
A prototype is an early version of a product from which future versions are developed. Continue Reading
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Feature
10 Apr 2023
Sustainability and ESG glossary: 52 terms to know
Sustainable strategies require basic understanding of the fundamentals. Business leaders and IT teams can benefit from this list of essential sustainability terms and ESG concepts. Continue Reading
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Podcast
30 Mar 2023
Digital twins of buildings can help decarbonize environment
John Turner and Anil Sawhney of the Digital Twin Consortium explain how deploying a digital twin of a building could significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Continue Reading
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Answer
29 Mar 2023
Learn the differences between 3PL and 4PL
A 3PL logistics provider fulfills some companies' needs, while others require a 4PL's more extensive services. Learn the difference between 3PL and 4PL. Continue Reading
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Tip
29 Mar 2023
3PL brokerage vs. freight brokerage: Which fits your needs?
A 3PL brokerage and a freight brokerage offer different services, so supply chain leaders should learn the differences between the two to decide which fits their company's needs. Continue Reading
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Definition
27 Mar 2023
service supply chain
The service supply chain is the part of the supply chain dedicated to providing service on products. Continue Reading
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Feature
16 Mar 2023
Learn the key role technology plays in sustainability
With ESG and environmental sustainability becoming more important for enterprise success, IT will need to understand its key role. Here's the overview. Continue Reading
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Opinion
16 Mar 2023
Introducing our essential sustainability and ESG resource hub
CIOs, supply chain pros and other stakeholders need information that demystifies sustainability strategies and tech. The new TechTarget site answers those needs. Continue Reading
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Tip
14 Mar 2023
Additive manufacturing: Learn about powder bed fusion
Powder bed fusion may cost less than other additive manufacturing approaches, but it can be time-consuming. Learn whether powder bed fusion is right for your manufacturing needs. Continue Reading
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Definition
10 Mar 2023
computer numerical control (CNC)
Computer numerical control (CNC) is a manufacturing method that automates the control, movement and precision of machine tools through the use of preprogrammed computer software, which is embedded inside the tools. Continue Reading
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Definition
09 Mar 2023
upcharge
An upcharge is an additional fee that is added to a bill after a contract has already been negotiated. Continue Reading
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Definition
08 Mar 2023
collaborative robot (cobot)
A collaborative robot, also known as a cobot, is an industrial robot that can safely operate alongside humans in a shared workspace. Continue Reading
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Feature
27 Feb 2023
ERP vs. WMS: Which one is right for you?
If nuanced warehouse efficiency is necessary to fulfill customer expectations, an ERP system may not be enough. Here's what to consider when it comes to ERP vs. WMS. Continue Reading
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Tip
24 Feb 2023
Additive manufacturing: Learn about sheet lamination
Sheet lamination, which is one type of additive manufacturing, is a comparatively cheap and quick way to prototype products. Learn more about sheet lamination. Continue Reading
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Definition
24 Feb 2023
cost of goods sold (COGS)
Cost of goods sold (COGS) is the total of the costs directly attributable to producing things that can be sold. Continue Reading
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Definition
22 Feb 2023
order to cash (OTC or O2C)
Order to cash (OTC or O2C) is a set of business processes that involve receiving and fulfilling customer requests for goods or services. Continue Reading
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News
10 Feb 2023
QAD adds Redzone connected worker platform
ERP vendor QAD acquires vendor Redzone, providing a foothold in the market for connected worker software that helps manufacturers improve productivity. Continue Reading
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Definition
01 Feb 2023
Toyota Way
The Toyota Way is a comprehensive expression of the company's management philosophy, which is based on the two foundational pillars of Continuous Improvement, also known as kaizen, and Respect for People. Continue Reading
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Definition
30 Jan 2023
Bullwhip Effect
The bullwhip effect is a supply chain phenomenon describing how small fluctuations in demand at the retail level can cause progressively larger fluctuations in demand at the wholesale, distributor, manufacturer and raw material supplier levels. Continue Reading
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Definition
27 Jan 2023
distributed control system (DCS)
A distributed control system (DCS) is a digital automated industrial control system (ICS) that uses geographically distributed control loops throughout a factory, machine or control area. Continue Reading
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Definition
26 Jan 2023
lean water spider
Lean water spider, or water spider, is a term used in manufacturing that refers to a position in a production environment or warehouse. Continue Reading
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News
26 Jan 2023
Oracle adds logistics features to supply chain platform
New functionality in Oracle Supply Chain Management helps companies more accurately track shipments and understand the provenance of product components. Continue Reading
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Tip
09 Jan 2023
Learn the 7 types of additive manufacturing
Additive manufacturing is a process in which technology creates 3D shapes by layering materials. Learn how additive manufacturing can support a company's supply chain strategy. Continue Reading
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Definition
05 Jan 2023
lean manufacturing (lean production)
Lean manufacturing is a methodology that focuses on minimizing waste within manufacturing systems while simultaneously maximizing productivity. Continue Reading
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Definition
28 Dec 2022
production planning
Production planning is the act of developing a guide for the design and production of a given product or service. Continue Reading
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Definition
28 Dec 2022
RFI (request for information)
An RFI (request for information) is a formal process for gathering information from potential suppliers of a good or service. Continue Reading
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Definition
28 Dec 2022
planogram
A planogram is a diagram that shows how and where specific retail products should be placed on retail shelves or displays to increase customer purchases. Continue Reading
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News
22 Dec 2022
Economics could curtail sustainability initiatives in 2023
As companies adopt measures to improve sustainability goals, enterprise applications can play a key role. But these efforts must also make economic sense to be successful. Continue Reading
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Tip
21 Dec 2022
Learn difference between additive, subtractive manufacturing
Additive and subtractive manufacturing are two different approaches that are often combined by manufacturers. Learn the difference between the two methods. Continue Reading
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Feature
19 Dec 2022
A digital transformation approach to supply chain resilience
An efficient supply chain starts with proactive preparation and the right technology. Learn more about the potential of digital transformation for supply chain resilience. Continue Reading
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Feature
15 Dec 2022
IT influences shift to net positive enterprise
In this Q&A, business sustainability expert Andrew Winston discusses why companies need to become net positive by contributing more than they take. Continue Reading
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News
08 Dec 2022
Hyperscalers tackle supply chain resilience
Microsoft and AWS unveiled supply chain management platforms that are intended to enable businesses to build capabilities in their clouds and tackle supply chain problems. Continue Reading
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Definition
30 Nov 2022
barcode (or bar code)
A barcode (sometimes seen as two words, bar code) is the small image of lines (bars) and spaces that is affixed to retail store items, identification cards and postal mail to identify a particular product number, person or location. Continue Reading
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News
30 Nov 2022
AWS joins Microsoft in providing supply chain visibility
AWS found that the core reason companies find supply chains challenging to manage is the lack of visibility across complicated networks. Continue Reading
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Podcast
29 Nov 2022
Reimagining the factory floor as a metaverse workplace
Plex CTO Jerry Foster explains how virtual reality technology and high-speed connectivity could allow factory line workers to do their jobs remotely from home as part of the metaverse. Continue Reading
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Definition
21 Nov 2022
enterprise asset management (EAM)
Enterprise asset management (EAM) is the process of managing the lifecycle of physical assets to maximize their use; save money; improve quality and efficiency; and safeguard health, safety and the environment. Continue Reading
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News
18 Nov 2022
Microsoft eyes new market with supply chain platform
Microsoft used to run its supply chain operations on Excel spreadsheets; now it's providing the building blocks for companies to collect data from various applications. Continue Reading
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Feature
17 Nov 2022
RFID in supply chain: 6 examples in use today
RFID continues to have applicability for supply chain management. Here are six ways organizations can use it to support inventory management and logistics. Continue Reading
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Tip
07 Nov 2022
Active vs. passive RFID tags: Which to choose
There are benefits and challenges to both active and passive RFID tags. An organization should learn what they are and what they do before implementation. Continue Reading
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Feature
31 Oct 2022
Why RFID for supply chain management is still relevant
RFID is comparatively older technology but can still be relevant for supply chain management. Learn some potential logistics uses for RFID and reasons for its increased adoption. Continue Reading
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Definition
28 Oct 2022
distribution channel
A distribution channel is the network of individuals and organizations involved in getting a product or service from the producer to the customer. Continue Reading
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News
26 Oct 2022
Business sustainability projects require savvy data analysis
In this Q&A, Stephen Keys of IFS discusses why sustainability projects for organizations are complex undertakings, but the data needed to drive projects already exists. Continue Reading
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Feature
25 Oct 2022
New ways of upcycling CO2, decarbonizing steel and cement
The industrial sector has a massive carbon footprint. That's why some companies are working to clean up steel and cement and find new uses for carbon. Continue Reading
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Definition
17 Oct 2022
just-in-time manufacturing (JIT manufacturing)
Just-in-time manufacturing (JIT manufacturing) is a production model in which items are created to meet demand, not created in surplus or in advance of need. Continue Reading
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Feature
30 Sep 2022
Fair Repair Act could help spur circular economy model
New regulations including the Fair Repair Act coupled with factors like consumer demand for sustainability are motivating manufacturers to consider a circular economy model. Continue Reading
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Tip
29 Sep 2022
RFID vs. IoT: What are the differences?
Users often combine RFID and IoT, but the two technologies are different in some important ways. Learn more about RFID vs. IoT and the uses for each in the supply chain. Continue Reading
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Definition
29 Sep 2022
distributor
A distributor is an intermediary entity between a producer of a product, or manufacturer, and a downstream entity in the distribution channel or supply chain. Continue Reading
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Tip
23 Sep 2022
7 benefits of RFID in supply chain management and logistics
RFID can help companies in their supply chain operations by assisting with product tracking and potentially improving product availability. Learn some of RFID's other benefits. Continue Reading
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Definition
22 Sep 2022
electronic data processing (EDP)
Electronic data processing (EDP) refers to the gathering of data using electronic devices, such as computers, servers or calculators. Continue Reading
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Definition
22 Sep 2022
electric field strength
Electric field strength is a quantitative expression of the intensity of an electric field at a particular location. Continue Reading
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Definition
22 Sep 2022
permittivity (electric permittivity)
Permittivity (electric permittivity) is defined as the ratio of electric displacement to the electric field intensity. Continue Reading
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Tip
31 Aug 2022
RFID vs. barcodes in supply chain: Which should you choose?
Both RFID and barcodes are valuable in the supply chain, but each is more useful for particular scenarios. Learn what to consider when deciding between RFID vs. barcodes. Continue Reading
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News
22 Aug 2022
Kinaxis RapidResponse gets multiparty orchestration with MPO
Supply chain planning and order execution will integrate as Kinaxis acquires MPO, which might help customers get real-time visibility and deal with supply chain disruptions. Continue Reading
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News
16 Aug 2022
CHIPS Act should simplify semiconductor supply chains
The CHIPS Act is a good first step in reviving U.S. semiconductor production, but experts caution that benefits won't be realized soon, due to issues like complex supply chains. Continue Reading
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Tip
08 Aug 2022
RFID vs. NFC: Learn the pros and cons of each
While NFC is a subset of RFID technology, the two have some key differences, including cost and security. Learn more about RFID vs. NFC and which works best for your organization. Continue Reading
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Feature
04 Aug 2022
The future of the food industry: Food tech explained
Food tech shows how technology can improve the way the world grows, produces, distributes and supplies food by using technology such as AI and automation. Continue Reading
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Tip
27 Jul 2022
5 ways to use social media in supply chain management
Amid a supply chain crisis, customers often turn to social media to voice frustration. Organizations need honesty, empathy and informative content to help disgruntled customers. Continue Reading
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Podcast
26 Jul 2022
Digital freight broker cuts food waste, carbon footprints
Hwy Haul CEO Syed Aman explains how connecting shippers with truckers online and using data science to optimize loads and routes makes the produce supply chain more sustainable. Continue Reading
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Tip
15 Jul 2022
The role of customer service in the supply chain
Amid a supply chain crisis, delays can cause customer satisfaction to plummet. Organizations must use transparency, personalization and empathy to enhance customer service efforts. Continue Reading
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News
08 Jul 2022
Growing number of risks tests supply chain continuity
In this Q&A, supply chain expert Zachary Collier looks at some ways supply chains are threatened today and how companies need to avoid a single point of failure in supply chains. Continue Reading
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Podcast
30 Jun 2022
Digital Twin Consortium strives to organize a chaotic market
Digital Twin Consortium CTO Dan Isaacs explains the organization's work and assesses the progress made in digital twin technology, standards and best practices. Continue Reading
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Feature
27 Jun 2022
Supply chain technology critical for dealing with issues
As supply chains face new and unprecedented pressures on a number of fronts, companies look to emerging technologies to automate tasks, get intelligence and become more resilient. Continue Reading
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Definition
24 Jun 2022
bill of materials (BOM)
A bill of materials (BOM) is a comprehensive inventory of the raw materials, assemblies, subassemblies, parts and components, as well as the quantities of each, needed to manufacture a product. Continue Reading
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News
13 Jun 2022
Alternative data, multimodal AI tech produce new insights
AI fuels the delivery of new sources of investment and corporate information, such as satellite imagery, contact center audio logs, employee sentiment and social media data. Continue Reading
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Answer
09 Jun 2022
What's the difference between SCM and CRM?
CRM platforms track customer interactions, whereas SCM platforms track materials and product shipments. Tech buyers should know how these platforms differ before making a purchase. Continue Reading
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Feature
09 Jun 2022
How supply chain issues affect data storage and what IT can do
Supply chain issues challenge IT teams and data storage administrators. It's important to be as proactive as possible when managing storage in an era of such uncertainty. Continue Reading
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Definition
01 Jun 2022
dielectric material
A dielectric material is a poor conductor of electricity but an efficient supporter of electrostatic fields. Continue Reading
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Definition
17 May 2022
replenishment
Replenishment is the controlled and regular movement of inventory from an upstream point on the supply chain to a downstream location that requires sufficient stock to cover demand. Continue Reading
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Feature
13 May 2022
How COVID-19 has affected just-in-time supply chains
Industry leaders long held up the just-in-time supply chain model as ideal, but the COVID-19 pandemic has revealed its weaknesses. Learn whether just-in-time is over for good. Continue Reading
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Feature
09 May 2022
How MSPs can help in building resilience in supply chains
Channel partners have stepped in to try to address supply chain disruptions, but not all vendors feel MSPs, consultants and other partners have the solutions manufacturers need. Continue Reading
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News
06 May 2022
Business conditions upend digital supply chain investments
A new PwC survey of supply chain leaders indicates that most companies are not yet seeing results from investments in advanced supply chain technologies. Continue Reading
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Definition
02 May 2022
hydraulics
Hydraulics is a mechanical function that operates through the force of liquid pressure. Continue Reading
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Definition
29 Apr 2022
net price
The net price is the value at which a product or service is sold after all taxes and other costs are added and all discounts subtracted. Continue Reading
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News
29 Apr 2022
Kinaxis, TraceLink partner on supply chain planning
Supply chain planning and collaboration come together in a new integration of Kinaxis RapidResponse and TraceLink's healthcare and pharmaceutical industry supply chain network. Continue Reading
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Feature
28 Apr 2022
5 best practices for creating a data-driven supply chain
Turning to data and analytics to manage supply chain disruption only helps if leaders use good practices for extracting insights. Here are five that can help. Continue Reading
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News
30 Mar 2022
Unilever pursues supply chain sustainability with blockchain
Unilever deploys blockchain-enabled GreenToken by SAP to help ensure the palm oil used in its products comes from responsible sources and doesn't contribute to rainforest loss. Continue Reading
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Definition
30 Mar 2022
Fast Guide to acronyms used in manufacturing
The following glossary or acronyms are those most used in internal communications within the manufacturing industry. Continue Reading
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News
18 Mar 2022
Ukraine war, sanctions will extend supply chain disruption
Supply chains have been hit hard in the past two years, and the challenges do not get easier with the Ukraine war, which will affect industries for years to come. Continue Reading
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Feature
18 Mar 2022
Does concurrent planning in the supply chain work?
Does concurrent planning in the supply chain work to address disruption? Some experts say the promise doesn't yet match reality during major crises. Continue Reading
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Definition
16 Mar 2022
supply chain visibility (SCV)
Supply chain visibility (SCV) is the ability of parts, components or products in transit to be tracked from manufacturer to final destination. Continue Reading
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News
15 Mar 2022
Ongoing disruptions force supply chain strategies to evolve
In this Q&A, IDC's Simon Ellis explains why companies need to implement more resilient supply chains in an environment of greater constraint caused by continual disruption. Continue Reading
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Definition
15 Mar 2022
demand signal repository (DSR)
A demand signal repository (DSR) is a database that aggregates sales and demand data at the merchant's point of sale (POS). Continue Reading
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Feature
14 Mar 2022
VC investment fuels supply chain innovation
Venture capital funds are now flowing into startups that are working on technologies and platforms to tackle longstanding supply chain issues. Continue Reading
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Podcast
28 Feb 2022
Is ERP good for sustainability -- or part of the problem?
ERP vendors tout new tools for improving environmental sustainability. TechTarget editors discuss these and other ways IT both helps and hurts the environment. Continue Reading
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Feature
04 Feb 2022
ERP critical to achieving sustainability goals in 2022
Sustainability is a major priority for businesses in 2022, driven by internal goals, customer demand and regulations. ERP systems are at the center of sustainability projects. Continue Reading
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Feature
19 Jan 2022
Why asset management software is more important than ever
Doing more with less has long been important -- but in the last couple of years, the idea has taken on new relevance. Learn how asset management software can help. Continue Reading
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Feature
18 Jan 2022
6 benefits of asset performance management
Asset performance management can help improve a company's bottom line by reducing costs and making devices more reliable. Learn more benefits of asset performance management. Continue Reading