United we stand

If you haven't heard the news, the Council of Supply Chain Management Professionals (CSCMP) and the National Shippers Strategic Transportation Council(NASSTRAC) announced earlier last year a partnership merging the two associations.

Both NASSTRAC and CSCMP have been around for a long time, since 1952 and 1963, respectively. While the association world is changing rapidly and becoming crowded with associations representing overlapping issues, companies have fewer discretionary dollars to spend on training and education. Given CSCMP's unique focus as the one, true, end-to-end supply chain association and NASSTRAC's in-depth focus on transportation, the partnership is a good match. It will benefit both associations and, more importantly, add value and relevance to our members.

We believe there are important synergies between CSCMP and NASSTRAC, and we can help each other in very meaningful ways. As this partnership deepens, our goal is to take a comprehensive look at the transportation function as it exists within the supply chain today and identify current needs in terms of education and skill development. Together, we will generate more relevant content and education, more advocacy, and more opportunities to engage locally and through the annual EDGE conference.

Another area of synergy is government advocacy. Advocacy has been a focus of NASSTRAC for over 60 years, and it will continue to be for years to come. CSCMP, on the other hand, has been historically neutral on advocacy and has avoided taking positions on legislative, regulatory, and related issues. We have, however, developed a unique relationship with the U.S. government by leading the Department of Commerce's Advisory Committee on Supply Chain Competitiveness since its inception. We have participated strongly by making recommendations on areas like improving the country's supply chain infrastructure, funding, processes, and other areas of importance. While CSCMP plans to remain neutral on advocacy, the closer ties between the two associations will increase CSCMP's awareness of governmental actions affecting transportation, logistics, and supply chain management.

The timing of this merger couldn't have been better for the industry. Transportation is going through an unprecedented period of volatility, and companies, more than ever before, are laser-focused on transportation. NASSTRAC's advocacy efforts allow shippers to have their voices heard on the issues that impact their supply chains and specifically their transportation network. By giving our members a "one-stop shop" for complete supply chain management issues, this partnership will not only make their lives easier, but also will save them money.

Another benefit of the new partnership is the merger of the NASSTRAC and CSCMP EDGE conferences in September of 2019. NASSTRAC's exposition historically consisted primarily of motor carriers. These companies will now be joining the EDGE Conference Supply Chain Exchange and be looking to make new contacts among the CSCMP membership and EDGE attendees. It also makes it easier for organizations to take advantage of the education and networking of both associations without having to carve out funding for two separate events.

CSCMP and NASSTRAC leadership are excited to advance this focused direction on value creation for our members, and we are now offering joint membership packages. These packages will provide opportunities for organizations to get involved with, and benefit from, both CSCMP and NASSTRAC at lower prices than ever before. Take advantage of our new partnership to get access to best practices, up-to-date trends, challenges, and solutions. Visit cscmp.org or contact our team today at membership@cscmp.org for more information.