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Favoring Face Time

By Purdum, Traci
Publication: Industry Week
Date: Wednesday, February 1 2006
HEADNOTE

LOGISTICS

HEADNOTE

As products become more complex and service more important, transportation customers might become less impressed by technology.

IMAGE ILLUSTRATION 1

IT'S EASY TO SLIDE DOWN THE slippery slope of IT overuse and automation. In the area of Transportation Management Software (TMS) and logistics providers, vendors have emphasized visibility, cost reduction, speed and market access. However, as new-product development and niche servicing become more important, transportation is one area that could see a de-emphasis of technology.

Knowing when it is appropriate to drop at the dock and run and when it is necessary to stick around and make sure things are working properly will become more important. And in some instances, a little technology can go a long way. According to results from the 2005 IW/MPI Census of Manufacturers, only 10.5% of the nearly 600 respondents said they were using TMS.

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Develop a Cash-Flow Statement
Dollars and Sense: An interview with Jim Schell of Opportunity Knocks, a consulting company based in Bend, Oregon; Nani Waddoups of R. Wagner Arts, an interior finishing company based in Portland, Oregon; Chris Schatte of Texoma Lawn and Garden in Vernon, Texas.