Publications

Operational footprint as a capability, not a liability
By establishing a formal review process to assess the operational footprint at periodic intervals and as part of the long-range strategic planning process, multi-site corporations can gain a substantial competitive edge—with more streamlined cost structures, more efficient supply chain processes, more shock-proof networks, and a range of other benefits.

Next-generation Lean: Letting go of what Lean has become so Lean can become what it should be
Lean has evolved into an inter-industry practice appropriate for any company that seeks to re-invent its workflow and unleash a profound transformation in business processes. Organizations that successfully implement Lean to its full maturity will benefit from increased sales and a closer connection with customers.

Global sales survey 2009-2010
This survey has identified three key takeaways form the data gathered by this report: Selling excellence is a key differentiator in revenue growth performance; leading companies have more advanced selling capabilities focused on customer buying behavior as well as clearly defined processes and related process automation support consistently and methodically managed on a global basis; and opportunities exist in varying dimensions for both leading and developing organizations to build better selling machines.

Supply Chain Management: Achieving agility through the sales inventory operations planning process
PwC discusses how an effective sales inventory operations planning (SIOP) process is key to a company achieving its goals of controlling costs, reducing capital expenses, and improving customer service.

10Minutes on supply chain risk management
Global supply chains are caught in a perfect storm of rising bankruptcies, soaring debt, tight credit, and weak demand. Even stable, cash-rich companies face increased risk of disruption because of innumerable interdependencies within and across industries. But for such companies the current environment is also an opportunity to pause, and address supply chain vulnerabilities that got overlooked in better times. This issue of 10Minutes discusses how companies can build more resilient supply chains during an economic downturn by identifying their most critical partners and strengthening those relationships for long-term advantage.

Seizing opportunity: Linking risk and performance
PwC's analysis shows how to achieve resiliency by creating accountability and incentives for integrating risk and performance management.

10Minutes on managing risk and performance
Extreme volatility isn't unprecedented for US businesses. But in the aftermath of the trillions of dollars lost in the global financial crisis, it's clear many companies took on excessive risk amid unreasonable expectations for long-term performance. Today, board and management are under increased pressure to reform how they assess risk and to measure its effect on performance. Linking risk and performance empowers companies to become more risk resilient and able to take smart risks with confidence and clarity.

10Minutes on Sustainable Cost Reduction
Companies are justifiably anxious to reduce costs. But the problem with many cost-cutting measures is that they are put into practice without considering their sustainability. Often, cost savings achieved in the short term eventually leak away. The failed cost reduction initiatives wind up damaging corporate infrastructure and culture, leaving companies struggling well after the recession ends. Faced with a protracted period of sluggish demand and tight credit, companies are now asking, “What has to fundamentally change so our cost reduction efforts work today as well as in the future?”

Achieving sustainable cost reduction maturity map
Sustainable cost reduction is a journey, rather than a traditional one-off program. This journey is comprised of a series of activities, primarily split into two stages: Stabilization and Transformation. PwC helps our clients navigate this journey and realize the sustainable benefits of cost reduction.

From vulnerable to valuable: How integrity can transform a supply chain
PwC discusses how supply chain disruption can destroy shareholder value and corporate profitability and that companies must invest in enhancing the integrity of their supply chains, in a manner which balances operational objectives with reputational risks.

How consumer conversation will transform business
Learn how technologies and methodologies are harnessing a new source of consumer data--the customer's thoughts, intentions and innovative ideas gleaned from conversations found in today's interactive media such as blogs, message boards and phone calls. PwC commissioned original research.

Managing business performance: The metrics that matter
Clients know "what gets measured gets done". This paper offers practical suggestions that will help overcome resistance and win support.