Manufacturing

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Companies that outsource manufacturing can better control process, product quality, flexibility, and delivery if they have a higher degree of integration with their suppliers. In some cases, it may make sense to bring some manufacturing in-house. A technique called "Krajlic's matrix" facilitates that decision.

The technology giant's global command centers coordinate parts logistics and field technicians to respond swiftly to customers' requests. They even monitor potential problems like natural disasters and work with customers to develop contingency plans.

An online portal allowed Ingersoll Rand's Trane division to achieve better communication with its suppliers. The resulting inventory visibility helps to keep its continuous-flow manufacturing lines humming.

By adopting proven practices from the supply chain literature, a Mercedes-Benz bus factory in Turkey avoided "reinventing the supply chain wheel" while making big gains in production and efficiency.

To offshore, nearshore, or "reshore"? A total cost of ownership (TCO) analysis can answer that question. For some companies, TCO analyses are suggesting that manufacturing close to the point of consumption is the best choice.

Produce-to-demand manufacturing can help some consumer packaged goods companies reduce finished-goods inventory, improve order fill rates, and cut supply chain costs. Here?s how to know whether it?s right for you.

By laying the proper groundwork and working effectively with their peer group, middle managers can gradually implement lean practices and make big operational improvements—without leadership from the top.

With operational costs rising and sales declining, the global coffee purveyor implemented a three-step plan to improve supply chain performance, cut costs, and prepare for the future.

A four-part approach to creating flexible supply chains is helping the construction industry in the United Kingdom respond better to economic downturns —and recoveries.

To ensure success when they outsource manufacturing, companies need to adopt a community approach with their partners and back it up with collaborative technology.