Asia/Pacific Supply Chains 2008 Top 10 Predictions

This Manufacturing Insights (MI) report presents MI's 2008 top 10 predictions for the Asia/Pacific supply chain market. This report includes trends or developments that MI believes to be the most influential on the market for the coming year and the areas that will generate new activities and spending. Summing up survey results and inputs from top manufacturing companies in the Asia/Pacific region, MI presents these top 10 predictions that are consistent with the overriding goal of companies to make faster, informed decisions in the increasingly complex and flatter world. In all, manufacturing companies will be in a better position to tackle rising costs, handle disruptions, and respond to environmental pressure by paying close attention to the top 10 predictions.

"For 2008, outsourcing will be a key strategy in cost innovation and expansion in the growing Asia emerging economies. Aside from understanding and developing human capital skill set and core competency in knowledge engineering, Lean and Six Sigma methodologies will be key as well in driving performance excellence. IT investment that enables an integrated enterprise to engage with its trading partners will be the main vehicle for faster response to the ever-changing market demand. Time spent on analyzing the vulnerability road map and building resiliency will ensure business continuity, minimize risks, and maximize opportunities. Going"Green"in manufacturing and building a"Green"supply chain will bring additional benefits to the environment and the companies,"says Randy Sng, associate research director, Manufacturing Insights Asia/Pacific.