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
29 Mar 2024
6 industrial metaverse use cases for manufacturing
Industrial metaverse use cases for manufacturing include facility design and employee training, though adoption of the technology is still in its early stages. Learn more. Continue Reading
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Feature
28 Mar 2024
AI a top trend for supply chain, but experts urge caution
AI is being adopted for company supply chains, but organizations should guard against hype and assess the business value and feasibility of these applications. Continue Reading
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Tip
26 Mar 2024
4 AI use cases for quality control in manufacturing
Learn how the integration of AI and machine learning into manufacturing processes can help organizations meet quality control needs, such as defect detection and waste reduction. Continue Reading
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Tip
25 Mar 2024
5 challenges of using AI in manufacturing
Some manufacturers might find integrating AI into existing operations to be a complex process. Learn key strategies to help solve these challenging issues before implementation. Continue Reading
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Definition
21 Mar 2024
digital thread
A digital thread is a data-driven communication framework that connects traditionally siloed elements in manufacturing processes and provides an integrated view of an asset throughout the manufacturing lifecycle. Continue Reading
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Definition
19 Mar 2024
warehouse management system (WMS)
A warehouse management system (WMS) consists of software and processes that allow organizations to control and administer warehouse operations from the time goods or materials enter a warehouse until they move out. Continue Reading
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Definition
15 Mar 2024
transportation management system (TMS)
A transportation management system (TMS) is specialized software for planning, executing and optimizing the shipment of goods. Continue Reading
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Definition
13 Mar 2024
supplier relationship management (SRM)
Supplier relationship management (SRM) is a systematic approach to evaluating and partnering with vendors that supply goods, materials and services to an organization, determining each supplier's contribution to success, and developing strategies to improve their performance. Continue Reading
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Definition
08 Mar 2024
digital twin
A digital twin is a virtual representation of a real-world entity or process. Continue Reading
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Definition
06 Mar 2024
supply chain analytics
Supply chain analytics refers to the processes organizations use to gain insight and extract value from the large amounts of data associated with the procurement, processing and distribution of goods. Continue Reading
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Feature
29 Feb 2024
Augmented reality vs. virtual reality vs. mixed reality
Learn about AR vs. VR vs. MR as well as how companies in various industries are using these extended reality technologies to potentially improve their operations. Continue Reading
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News
29 Feb 2024
QAD ERP makes platform play with ITP
The new QAD Industrial Transformation Platform initiative is designed to provide customers with the applications and processes to become more adaptive and resilient. Continue Reading
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Tip
28 Feb 2024
7 generative AI use cases in supply chain
Generative AI's demand forecasting and inventory optimization abilities, among others, can help companies meet their goals. Learn how the technology can align with these efforts. Continue Reading
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Definition
27 Feb 2024
edge analytics
Edge analytics is an approach to data collection and analysis in which an automated analytical computation is performed on data at a sensor, network switch or other device instead of waiting for the data to be sent back to a centralized data store. Continue Reading
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Definition
27 Feb 2024
ABC classification
ABC classification is a ranking system for identifying and grouping items in terms of how useful they are for achieving business goals. Continue Reading
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Definition
23 Feb 2024
supply chain management (SCM)
Supply chain management (SCM) is the optimization of a product's creation and flow from raw material sourcing to production, logistics and delivery to the final customer. Continue Reading
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News
13 Feb 2024
Oracle Fusion Cloud SCM adds to logistics management
New applications in Oracle Fusion Cloud SCM for transportation and trade management are intended to help companies manage logistics networks and deal with supply chain disruptions. Continue Reading
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Definition
08 Feb 2024
supply chain finance
Supply chain finance is a set of technology-enabled business and financial processes that provides flexible payment options for a buyer and one of their suppliers at lower financing costs. Continue Reading
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Definition
07 Feb 2024
digital manufacturing
Digital manufacturing is a technology-based approach to production that links different data silos and processes in the manufacturing lifecycle so that stakeholders can make better business decisions both comprehensively and at each step. Continue Reading
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Definition
05 Feb 2024
work in progress (WIP)
Work in progress (WIP) refers to the number of tasks or projects that are currently in the process of being completed. Continue Reading
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Definition
02 Feb 2024
material requirements planning (MRP)
Material requirements planning (MRP) is a system for calculating the materials and components needed to manufacture a product. Continue Reading
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Definition
01 Feb 2024
reverse logistics
Reverse logistics is the set of activities that is conducted after the sale of a product to recapture value and end the product's lifecycle. Continue Reading
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Definition
01 Feb 2024
value chain
A value chain is a concept describing the full chain of a business's activities in creating a product or service -- from initial receipt of materials through its delivery to market. Continue Reading
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Tip
31 Jan 2024
7 best practices for inventory management
Efficient inventory management can help retailers and other companies improve their operations. Learn some best practices for balancing supply and demand. Continue Reading
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Tip
31 Jan 2024
5 advantages of using inventory management software
Discover some of the advantages of using inventory management software, including helping companies minimize costly errors and prevent theft. Continue Reading
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Definition
30 Jan 2024
engineering bill of materials (EBOM)
An engineering bill of materials (EBOM) is a product recipe structured from the design standpoint, rather than the manufacturing standpoint. Continue Reading
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Definition
26 Jan 2024
reshoring
Reshoring is the process of bringing back manufacturing or production operations to their country of origin or a nearby region. Continue Reading
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Tip
26 Jan 2024
5 important inventory management software features: A list
Some of the most important inventory management software features are inventory tracking and reports and analytics capabilities. Here's the full list. Continue Reading
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News
19 Jan 2024
New IFS CEO talks next phase of growth for ERP provider
In this Q&A, IFS CEO Mark Moffat discusses the next steps the company is taking to become an AI-centric industrial software provider that focuses on asset-heavy industries. Continue Reading
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Definition
18 Jan 2024
product data management (PDM)
Product data management (PDM) is the process of capturing and managing the electronic information related to a product so it can be reused in business processes such as design, production, distribution and marketing. Continue Reading
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Definition
11 Jan 2024
sales and operations planning (S&OP)
Sales and operations planning (S&OP) is a process for better matching a manufacturer's supply with demand by having the sales department collaborate with operations to create a single production plan. Continue Reading
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Tip
09 Jan 2024
20 common problems with inventory management
Some problems with inventory management that companies frequently face include ordering errors and lack of warehouse space. Learn how to prevent these issues. Continue Reading
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Tip
05 Jan 2024
MRP vs. ERP: Understand the differences and similarities
Did you know today's ERP systems evolved from yesterday's MRP systems? Learn the differences, including functions, applications and benefits -- and how they work together. Continue Reading
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Definition
21 Dec 2023
traceability
Traceability, in supply chain traceability, is the ability to identify, track and trace elements of a product or substance as it moves along the supply chain from raw goods to finished products. Continue Reading
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Definition
21 Dec 2023
vendor-managed inventory (VMI)
Vendor-managed inventory (VMI) is an inventory management technique in which the supplier of goods, usually the manufacturer, is responsible for optimizing the inventory a distributor holds. Continue Reading
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Definition
19 Dec 2023
supply chain risk management (SCRM)
Supply chain risk management (SCRM) is the coordinated efforts of an organization to help identify, monitor, detect and mitigate threats to supply chain continuity and profitability. Continue Reading
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Definition
13 Dec 2023
service lifecycle management (SLM)
Service lifecycle management (SLM) describes the strategy and software for managing the maintenance and repair of products and maximizing the profit opportunities from these activities. Continue Reading
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Tip
08 Dec 2023
WMS vs. IMS: Learn the differences between the two systems
A WMS streamlines warehouse operations, while an IMS focuses solely on inventory management. Discover how these systems can work together to streamline warehouse processes. Continue Reading
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Feature
07 Dec 2023
What role do ERP systems play in supply chain management?
ERP is involved in every major step in manufacturing products and delivering the right ones to consumers. Here's an overview of its key SCM modules and features. Continue Reading
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Definition
06 Dec 2023
go-live (go live)
Go-live is the time at which something becomes available for use. Continue Reading
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Tip
04 Dec 2023
WMS vs. WCS vs. WES: Learn the differences
Companies often implement a WMS, then potentially add a WCS or a WES later. Learn more about WMS, WCS and WES as well as the differences between the three systems. Continue Reading
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News
30 Nov 2023
Accenture, SAP partner on supply chain visibility
A partnership between Accenture and SAP builds supply chain capabilities on SAP IBP that enables organizations to identify and respond to changes in supply, demand and inventory. Continue Reading
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News
29 Nov 2023
White House unveils plan to build supply chain resilience
New Biden administration actions for supply chains include a cross-governmental council, use of the Defense Production Act for essential medicines, and data sharing and analytics. Continue Reading
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Definition
28 Nov 2023
inventory turns (inventory turnover)
Inventory turns, also referred to as inventory turnover and inventory turnover ratio, are a popular measurement used in inventory management to assess operational and supply chain efficiency. Continue Reading
- Definition 22 Nov 2023
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Feature
20 Nov 2023
Digital tech tops supply chain trends list for 2024
Supply chain professionals want more technologies such as AI for visibility and traceability in 2024; however, sustainability and reshoring are long-term strategies. Continue Reading
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Tip
17 Nov 2023
WMS vs. OMS: Learn the differences between the two systems
While WMS streamlines warehouse processes, OMS can help improve order management and customer data tracking. Discover more about the differences between WMS and OMS. Continue Reading
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Tip
06 Nov 2023
7 tips for implementing a transportation management system
Implementing a transportation management system can be a challenging process, so supply chain leaders should follow some best practices to ensure success. Learn more. Continue Reading
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Tip
03 Nov 2023
MES vs. ERP: What are the differences?
MES software focuses on manufacturing processes, while an ERP system focuses on company operations. Learn more about the differences between MES vs. ERP. Continue Reading
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Definition
01 Nov 2023
digital supply chain
A digital supply chain is a supply chain whose foundation is built on web-enabled capabilities. Continue Reading
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Tip
01 Nov 2023
7 advantages, disadvantages of using a TMS
Using a TMS can help companies in various ways, but it can also bring disadvantages. Learn more about the pros and cons of using a transportation management system. Continue Reading
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Definition
27 Oct 2023
manufacturing execution system (MES)
A manufacturing execution system (MES) is an information system that connects, monitors and controls complex manufacturing systems and data flows on the factory floor. Continue Reading
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Tip
27 Oct 2023
3 benefits of integrating WMS and TMS software
The right software can help many logistics companies streamline operations, improve shipment visibility and optimize processes. Discover how a WMS-TMS integration can help. Continue Reading
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News
25 Oct 2023
SAP broadens CX offerings with new AI tools for Joule
The ERP software vendor brings AI-based tools to strengthen identity and data security as well as end-to-end personalization to highlight its customer experience offerings. Continue Reading
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Definition
25 Oct 2023
hybrid manufacturing
Hybrid manufacturing is a term that describes combining additive manufacturing and subtractive manufacturing in a single machine system. Continue Reading
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Definition
23 Oct 2023
advanced shipping notice (ASN)
An advanced shipping notice (ASN) is a document that provides detailed information about a pending delivery. Continue Reading
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Definition
19 Oct 2023
value driver
A value driver is an activity or capability that adds worth to a product, service or brand. Continue Reading
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Tip
16 Oct 2023
6 advantages and disadvantages of value chain analysis
Company leaders seeking to optimize efficiency and reduce costs should learn the advantages and disadvantages of value chain analysis to determine if it's the right choice. Continue Reading
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Tip
12 Oct 2023
Value chain vs. value stream: What are the differences?
Understanding value chains vs. value streams can be difficult, but both approaches can help companies improve their operations and customer service. Learn more. Continue Reading
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Tip
12 Oct 2023
PLM vs. ALM: Compare the differences
Company leaders must be aware of the critical distinctions between PLM and ALM. Learn each system's features and how they can potentially work together. Continue Reading
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Tip
29 Sep 2023
PLM and PDM software: Learn the differences
PLM and PDM software may seem similar, but they fulfill different needs for manufacturers. Learn the differences and which is more useful for your company. Continue Reading
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Definition
29 Sep 2023
strategic sourcing
Strategic sourcing is an approach to supply chain management that formalizes the way information is gathered and used. Continue Reading
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Tip
25 Sep 2023
PLM vs. PIM: What are the differences?
Users primarily work with PLM data during product development, while users work with the data from a PIM system when marketing the final product. Learn more about PLM vs. PIM. Continue Reading
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Tip
25 Sep 2023
Value chain vs. supply chain: What are the differences?
Although value chains and supply chains can be interchangeable, they are separate approaches to producing goods. Learn more about value chain vs. supply chain. Continue Reading
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Definition
25 Sep 2023
discrete manufacturing
Discrete manufacturing is an industry term for the manufacturing of finished products that are distinct items capable of being easily counted, touched or seen. Continue Reading
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News
19 Sep 2023
Industrial operations needs open technology ecosystem
To fully realize the productivity promises of Industry 4.0, manufacturers need to take an open ecosystem approach that integrates proprietary OT systems with IT systems. Continue Reading
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News
15 Sep 2023
Industry 4.0 manufacturing success depends on enabling people
Industry 4.0 success requires giving frontline workers the digital tools they need to solve problems and open, rather than closed, systems to drive collaboration. Continue Reading
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Definition
15 Sep 2023
What is machine learning and how does it work? In-depth guide
Machine learning (ML) is a type of artificial intelligence (AI) focused on building computer systems that learn from data. The broad range of techniques ML encompasses enables software applications to improve their performance over time. Continue Reading
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Feature
14 Sep 2023
Are NFTs bad for the environment? Carbon, energy and more
Like blockchain, NFTs have a negative reputation when it comes to the environment. Learn why and whether that negative impact has changed in the last few years. Continue Reading
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Definition
13 Sep 2023
pick to light
Pick to light is order fulfillment technology that employs alphanumeric displays and buttons at storage locations to guide the manual picking and recording of items for shipment. Continue Reading
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Definition
12 Sep 2023
supply chain transformation
Supply chain transformation is the addition and integration of technology to improve supply chain performance, optimize costs and mitigate risks. Continue Reading
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Definition
12 Sep 2023
distribution requirements planning (DRP)
Distribution requirements planning (DRP) is a systematic process to make the delivery of goods more efficient by determining which goods, in what quantities and at what location, are required to meet anticipated demand. Continue Reading
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News
31 Aug 2023
IFS snaps up industrial AI provider Falkonry
On the heels of buying Poka, IFS has acquired industrial AI software company Falkonry to help manufacturers detect and resolve anomalies in processes. Continue Reading
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Tip
25 Aug 2023
6 benefits of field service management software
6 benefits of field service management software Continue Reading
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Feature
24 Aug 2023
What to know about ESG data across ERP, enterprise systems
No single enterprise systems holds the key to ESG reporting. Instead, data is spread across ERP and other software systems. Here's what IT and sustainability leaders should know. Continue Reading
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Definition
23 Aug 2023
3PL (third-party logistics)
A 3PL (third-party logistics) provider offers outsourced logistics services, which encompass anything that involves management of one or more facets of procurement and fulfillment activities. Continue Reading
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Feature
18 Aug 2023
Sustainability partnership: How CSOs and CIOs can team up
Learn how sustainability leaders and IT leaders can partner for ESG success by collaborating on tech selection, prioritizing the right data and allowing for tension. Continue Reading
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Feature
17 Aug 2023
Reshoring manufacturing interest grows but is slow going
Reshoring manufacturing to the U.S. is on the rise, driven by supply chain risks, sustainability demands, and policy incentives. But the pace and extent of any shift is uncertain. Continue Reading
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Definition
11 Aug 2023
logistics
Logistics is the process of planning and executing the efficient transportation and storage of goods from the point of origin to the point of consumption. Continue Reading
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Guest Post
02 Aug 2023
5 ways tech leaders can power environmental sustainability
As organizations prioritize environmental sustainability, technology leaders have the opportunity to help support success. Here are five steps that help. Continue Reading
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Tip
02 Aug 2023
MRP vs. MPS: What are the differences?
Learn about MRP vs. MPS, including how each focuses on different aspects of the manufacturing process but can help manufacturers in a variety of ways. Continue Reading
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Tip
02 Aug 2023
9 benefits of MRP software
MRP and MRP II software can offer multiple benefits to manufacturers. Learn how manufacturing companies can use them to potentially improve key production processes. Continue Reading
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Feature
26 Jul 2023
10 tips for a successful sustainability journey
Sustainability isn't a one-and-done endeavor but rather a journey your organization will need to prioritize going forward. Here's how to create success. Continue Reading
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Definition
21 Jul 2023
supply chain planning (SCP)
Supply chain planning (SCP) is the process of anticipating the demand for products and planning their materials and components, production, marketing, distribution and sale. Continue Reading
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Definition
20 Jul 2023
logistics management
Logistics management is the governance of supply chain management functions that helps organizations plan, manage and implement processes to move and store goods. Continue Reading
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Feature
20 Jul 2023
2 sustainable packaging benefits and 1 challenge to know
Learn how using sustainable packaging can benefit companies in various ways, including to improve brand image, as well as challenges of which supply chain leaders should be aware. Continue Reading
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Definition
19 Jul 2023
process manufacturing
Process manufacturing is a production method in which goods are created by combining supplies, ingredients or raw materials using a predetermined formula or recipe. Continue Reading
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News
10 Jul 2023
Industrial metaverse blends real, virtual work environment
In this Q&A, Siemens USA's Barbara Humpton discusses the industrial metaverse and the technologies driving the potential future of manufacturing forward. Continue Reading
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Feature
29 Jun 2023
Industrial metaverse, AI set to transform manufacturing
Manufacturing is moving into the industrial metaverse where companies create and run virtual models of physical facilities, incorporating digital twins, AR, IoT and cloud computing. Continue Reading
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Podcast
29 Jun 2023
Cloud CAD software helps usher in digital manufacturing era
SolidWorks and Onshape co-founder Jon Hirschtick, now chief evangelist at PTC, shares his cloud-centered vision of the future of product design technology. Continue Reading
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Definition
22 Jun 2023
dual sourcing
Dual sourcing is the supply chain management practice of using two suppliers for a given component, raw material, product or service. Continue Reading
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News
21 Jun 2023
Kinaxis provides tool for sustainable supply chain
Kinaxis debuted new applications designed to improve supply chain management, including sustainability reporting, planning and execution integration, and AI for demand sensing. Continue Reading
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Definition
07 Jun 2023
asset performance management (APM)
Asset performance management (APM) is both a strategy and a set of software tools for tracking and managing the health of an organization's physical assets. Continue Reading
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Definition
06 Jun 2023
digital ecosystem
A digital ecosystem is a group of interconnected information technology resources that can function as a unit. Continue Reading
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Tip
06 Jun 2023
ERP vs. BPM: Which is best for your company?
Some companies may need BPM software to supplement their existing ERP system. Learn more about ERP vs. BPM and how these tools can work together to improve efficiency. Continue Reading
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Definition
02 Jun 2023
procure to pay (P2P)
Procure to pay is the process of requisitioning, purchasing, receiving, paying for and accounting for goods and services. Continue Reading
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Definition
02 Jun 2023
letter of intent (LOI)
A letter of intent (LOI) is a written, nonbinding document that outlines an agreement in principle between two or more parties before a legal agreement is finalized. Continue Reading
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Feature
01 Jun 2023
Arista ditches spreadsheets, email for SAP IBP
As rapid growth outstripped Arista Networks' spreadsheet-based supply chain processes, the company implemented a digital supply chain with SAP Integrated Business Planning. Continue Reading
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Conference Coverage
01 Jun 2023
SAP Sapphire 2023 news, trends and analysis
The conference showed SAP is responding to the demand for generative AI and highlighted SAP cloud products, services and testimonials from companies that have moved to the cloud. Continue Reading
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Feature
30 May 2023
8 ideas for increasing warehouse sustainability
Warehouses can make up a major part of a company's carbon emissions. Learn some ideas for how warehouse owners and operators can improve sustainability. 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