We hope you enjoy the August 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 Article: Overseas Manufacturing May Be Costing Your Firm Millions
Whether contemplating outsourced manufacturing or re-evaluating existing supply chain strategies, US-based manufacturers need to be aware of three common mistakes that lead to flawed analysis.
By J. Michael Kilgore and Jeffery M. Metersky

Time for a Change
Logistics executives can drive positive bottom line results, even in bad times. The key to reconfiguration plan understanding the functional and geographic interdependencies that make up an optimal supply chain.
By Perry A. Trunick, Chief Logistics Officer

Cooper Tire: Where the Rubber Meets the Supply Chain
A venerable domestic maker of replacement tires for cars and trucks suddenly goes global, and its supply chain is forced to catch up.
By Robert J. Bowman, Global Logistics & Supply Chain Strategies

The Value Chain's True Costs
Measuring and modeling the hidden costs; Kimberly-Clark looks for the REAL landed cost of goods in distribution centers, stores
By Jim Ericson, Line56

Truckload vs. LTL
Software makes it easier for shippers to combine less-than-truckload into truckload shipments - but consolidation may not always be the best way to go.
By Robert Spiegel, Logistics Management

The Harley Triangle: Where freight inefficiency disappears
The Harley Triangle. No, it's not a mysterious region where motorcycles disappear. In fact, the Harley Triangle is where a good number of motorcycles appear (on assembly lines) and only freight inefficiency disappears.
By David Hannon, Purchasing

Ocean Shipping: RFPs that get results
By taking a fresh approach to the bidding process—and applying some technology—you and your ocean carriers can get the most out of requests for proposals.
By Toby B. Gooley, Logistics Management

The High Cost of Inventory
Understanding the cost of carrying inventory can yield operational improvements and increased profits.
By Dan Swartwood, Chief Logistics Officer

Future Results Not Guaranteed
Contrary to what vendors tell you, computer systems alone are incapable of producing accurate forecasts.
By Ben Worthen, CIO