Big Data Leads the Four Pillars - U.S. Supply Chain Survey 2012 Results

12:00 p.m. - 1:00 p.m., U.S. Eastern Time

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Manufacturers in North America face increasing complexity as customer demand diversifies and supply globalizes. Supply chain organizations are adapting to respond to requirements such as:

• Complex and extended global supply networks reflecting globalization and the chase for "low cost" manufacturing - often characterized by significantly longer product lead times
• Volatile demand as the new norm, caused by the health of micro markets and the economic news of the day, as well as challenging forecast accuracy and predictability of input costs
• Growing regulation, particularly in the area of traceability, but re-invigorating efforts to improve visibility, supply chain responsiveness, and product quality
• The accelerated pace of business pressuring manufacturers to be more agile and increase the clock speed of their supply chains
• The "rise" of the consumer, with consumers and customers having greater access to information that allows them to make more informed decisions and purchases

IDC Manufacturing Insights' 2012 survey of 350 U.S. manufacturers examines the state of the supply chain today, how manufacturers are adapting and improving their supply chains, and how technology plays a role in enabling manufacturers to be more successful. Based on our survey findings and ongoing research, we will answer the following questions in this complimentary web conference:

• How do supply chains adapt as manufacturers increase their levels of outsourcing?
• What is the current thinking, from a manufacturer's perspective, on supply sourcing, and are manufacturers really applying profitable proximity techniques?
• Are manufacturers most focused on cost, service, or product quality, and which initiatives are they pursuing to support that focus?
• What's pushing manufacturers to increase the agility of their supply chains, how are they responding, and how should they respond?
• Do manufacturers see technology as a way to address their supply chain challenges and improve their key performance indicators?
• Are manufacturers planning to adopt new technology - mobility, social business, cloud, or big data - to accelerate the performance of their supply chains?

Join IDC Manufacturing Insights analysts Simon Ellis, Kimberly Knickle, and Catherine White for this complimentary one-hour web conference as they share their insights into these questions and more.

Note: Slides and a recording will be available after the event. Pre-register to be sure you receive information and reminders.