Features

Summer 2006

Sharing pays dividendsTo avoid the risk of bankrupting key suppliers, companies need to ensure that free cash flow is distributed fairly along their value chains
Learning to let goProactive CPOs thoroughly assess the value of outsourcing some of their procurement activities - even if they then choose not to do it
Beyond the Eureka momentSuccessful innovation today is less about flashes of inspiration and more about building and managing powerful knowledge networks and relationships
Procurement's DNA testGenentech's head of global procurement talks about the challenges - and opportunities - of working in a fast-growing, innovation-led US biotechnology pioneer
Talk a common languageIf close relationshipswith strategically important suppliers are to flourish, then creating a shared and more inclusive vocabulary is essential
Plugging the leaksTo ensure that cost savings reach the bottom line, CPOs need to follow a disciplined approach that addresses both tactical and organisational challenges
One tool or a whole toolbox?Despite the improving functionality of ERP systems, many companies still turn to best-of-breed vendors to meet their procurement and supply chain needs