Logistics and distribution managers face an unmarked path in their pursuit of a strategic advantage.

Small and midsize manufacturers say price-cut mandates and online reverse auctions compromise quality and endanger their businesses. Supporters of the practices say the strongest suppliers will survive, making supply chains more efficient.

Grabbing more links of the value chain can reduce risk and increase control.

The challenge facing manufacturing executives? How do they position their firms in the "value chain" -- the entire series of activities that begins with the processing of raw materials and ends when a finished product is in the hands of...

Steve Jobs lured Timothy D. Cook from industry leader Compaq with a $500,000 signing bonus and a $400,000 base salary to become Apple's senior vice president for worldwide operations.

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