Manufacturing Knowledge Base

There have been a few spectacular failures, but the trend is clear: outsourcing is here to stay. Third Party Logistics providers (3PLs) are thriving because they can provide companies greater value through outsourcing non-core competencies. Link these providers together, and you may have significantly added to the bottom line. There is a myriad of provider firms representing a wide range of supply chain capabilities and offerings. It can be easy for a manager to be perplexed and confused, but those who persevere will be rewarded. With a little homework, and the wise investment of time and capital at the beginning of the relationship, the chances of success increase greatly. Author: Robert E. Sabath, Deloitte Consulting, Evanston, IL.