We hope you enjoy the April issue of Supply Chain Directions, our bi-monthly e-newsletter linking you to a short list of leading, timely and relevant white papers and articles in the areas of Supply Chain Strategy,
Transportation Planning, and
Inventory Planning.

Chainalytics White Paper: Mitigating Supply Chain Risks
Traditional supply chain redesign minimizes expected supply chain costs, yet the focus on economies of scale often yields over-concentration of resources - heightening the risk of service failure, increases in actual costs, and capacity imbalance.
By Mike Kilgore. To appear in April 2003 Chief Logistics Officer

Delivering the Goods: The Art of Managing Your Supply Chain
Master the receipe and you achieve efficiencies and savings. Becoming a better global competitor is just the icing on the cake.
By Damon Schecter and Gordon Sander, Inbound Logistics

Are Your Biggest And Most Loyal Customers Making You Money? Maybe Not
Companies have more information on their customers than ever before, but most don't know if these partners are good for them - or bleeding them dry.
By Jean V. Murphy, Global Logistics & Supply Chain Strategies

Shifting Gears from Inventory To Motor Freight Costs
The nation's motor carrier freight bill for 2001 was $494 billion. The implication for the nation's shippers and receivers is clear: 50 percent of the logistics cost equation cannot be ignored. It is time to shift the centerpiece of U.S. corporate logistics agendas from inventory to motor freight cost reductions.
By Terry Cowee, Inbound Logistics

Take Over The Wheel
Reap substantial savings by better managing your inbound transportation.
By John Karolefski, Food Logistics

Parcel shippers to get more cost conscious in 2003
The era of cost-cutting and efficiency has infiltrated all areas of logistics and small parcel shipping is certainly no exception.
By David Hannon, News and Transportation Editor, Purchasing

Slow-Moving Inventory: All Dressed Up and Nowhere to Go
Some companies that think they do a good job speeding inventory have it only half right. Many focus only on fast-moving items, ignoring the savings potential of managing slow-movers. Here's how to tap this new opportunity.
By Wayne Patch and Fred Wintle, Inbound Logistics

Retail Optimization: Time For Change at Bulgari
New optimization solutions are reducing inventories for retailers. This high fashion marketer took the opportunity for big savings.
By Lisa H. Harrington, Transportation & Distribution