Increased Use of California Ports Impacts Quality of LifeThere is a 'good new/bad news' scenario to importing and exporting products for those regions of the country that boast busy sea ports. Specifically in Southern California, the Long Beach Port manages trade valued annually at more than $100 billion, making it the second-busiest seaport in the United States. Yet, this prosperity significantly negative impacts the quality of life in Southern Califor
Outsourcing Decreases Time-to-Market - A Case StudyWith product life cycles shortening and global competition increasing, manufacturers are increasingly turning to outsourcing as a means to speed up time-to-market, while also remaining cost competitive. No where is this more true than in the consumer electronics business.
The Hidden Costs in Offshore Outsourcing - A Case StudyOffshore outsourcing has become a critical manufacturing component of many US headquartered companies; this is largely due to the 'perceived cost savings' touted by offshore outsourcing suppliers. This reduced hard cost-per-unit looks enticing; however, offshore outsourcing has many hidden costs that can eat away the bottom line. Most firms learn about these hidden costs after they begin offshore
Outsourcing Offshore to China - A Case StudyOutsourcing offshore to China works for Printronix, a company that for over 30 years has designed and manufactured a broad range of line matrix printers, ultra high frequency radio frequency identification (UHF-RFID) printers, thermal bar code label printers, and continuous forms laser printers. A market leader in the printing business, outsourcing allows Printronix a competitive cost advantage bu
Attributes of a Good Outsource Manufacturing PartnerCareful consideration must be given when choosing and working with an outsource manufacturing partner. Although each situation is unique, there are common characteristics that make for a reliable outsource partner.
Global Outsourcing Helps Service Sector FirmsGlobal outsourcing has many benefits with cost reduction a frequent catalyst that causes firms to examine offshore options. This introspection encourages many firms to first look at their manufacturing locations and processes. While most types of manufacturing can be outsourced offshore, service and software industries have also benefited from offshore outsourcing.
Offshore Outsourcing Has RisksOffshore outsourcing has proven to be an effective method for firms to increase profitability and to stay competitive in the global marketplace. Yet, with these gains one must address and manage the risks involved to be successful. The risks include cultural differences, communication, quality measurement, managing specifications, security, and organizational issues.
