The Logistical Value Proposition
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我将如何创办自己的企业英语作文80词全文共3篇示例,供读者参考篇1How I Will Start My Own BusinessStarting my own business has always been a dream of mine. I have a clear vision of the type of company I want to create and how I will make it successful.First and foremost, I will need to identify a market need that my business can fulfill. This will involve conducting market research to understand the needs and preferences of potential customers. Once I have identified a niche, I will need to come up with a unique value proposition that sets my business apart from competitors.Next, I will need to create a business plan that outlines my goals, strategies, and financial projections. This plan will serve as a roadmap for my business and will help me secure funding from investors or lenders.Once I have a solid plan in place, I will need to take care of the legal and administrative aspects of starting a business. This will involve registering my company, obtaining any necessarylicenses or permits, and setting up accounting and other operational systems.Finally, I will need to focus on marketing and sales to attract customers and generate revenue. This will involve creating a strong brand image, developing effective advertising campaigns, and building relationships with potential clients.In conclusion, starting my own business will require hard work, dedication, and strategic planning. However, I am confident that with the right approach, I can turn my dream into a successful reality.篇2How I Will Start My Own BusinessStarting my own business has always been a dream of mine. I have a passion for entrepreneurship and a vision for creating something new and innovative. Here are the steps I will take to make my dream a reality.First and foremost, I will conduct thorough market research to identify the needs and preferences of my target customers. Understanding the market trends and competitor analysis will help me to develop a unique selling proposition for my business.Next, I will create a solid business plan that outlines my business goals, target market, marketing strategies, and financial projections. This plan will serve as a roadmap for my business and help me stay focused on achieving my objectives.After creating a business plan, I will secure the necessary funding to launch my business. Whether through investors, loans, or personal savings, having a solid financial foundation is crucial for a successful start-up.Once the funding is in place, I will register my business, obtain any necessary permits or licenses, and set up a legal structure. I will also secure a physical location for my business, whether it be a storefront, office space, or virtual office.With all the logistical aspects in place, I will focus on building a strong brand presence through effective marketing and branding strategies. Utilizing social media, digital marketing, and traditional advertising channels will help me reach my target audience and establish my business as a reputable brand.As my business grows, I will focus on providing exceptional customer service and continuously innovating to meet the changing needs of my customers. By staying adaptable and open to new opportunities, I will ensure the long-term success of my business.In conclusion, starting my own business will be a challenging yet rewarding journey. By following these steps and staying committed to my vision, I am confident that I can turn my dream into a thriving business.篇3Starting my own company is a dream that I have had for a long time. I envision a business that combines my passion for technology and my desire to make a positive impact on society.The first step in starting my own company would be to do thorough market research to identify a gap in the market that my business can fill. I would then develop a detailed business plan outlining my goals, target market, revenue projections, and marketing strategies.Next, I would secure funding for my business either through investors, loans, or crowdfunding. I would also seek out mentors and advisors who can offer guidance and support as I navigate the challenges of entrepreneurship.Once my business is up and running, I would focus on building a strong team of employees who share my vision and values. I would prioritize creating a positive work culture that fosters creativity, innovation, and collaboration.I believe that with determination, hard work, and a clear vision, I can successfully launch and grow my own company. I am excited about the possibilities that lie ahead and look forward to making my entrepreneurial dreams a reality. Starting my own company is a dream that I have had for a long time. I envision a business that combines my passion for technology and my desire to make a positive impact on society.The first step in starting my own company would be to do thorough market research to identify a gap in the market that my business can fill. I would then develop a detailed business plan outlining my goals, target market, revenue projections, and marketing strategies.Next, I would secure funding for my business either through investors, loans, or crowdfunding. I would also seek out mentors and advisors who can offer guidance and support as I navigate the challenges of entrepreneurship.Once my business is up and running, I would focus on building a strong team of employees who share my vision and values. I would prioritize creating a positive work culture that fosters creativity, innovation, and collaboration.I believe that with determination, hard work, and a clear vision, I can successfully launch and grow my own company. I amexcited about the possibilities that lie ahead and look forward to making my entrepreneurial dreams a reality.。
国际化策略英文版Title: Internationalization Strategy: Expanding into Global Markets Introduction:In today's highly interconnected world, companies cannot afford to limit their operations to one domestic market. Internationalization has become a crucial aspect of business growth and expansion. This article will delve into the concept of internationalization strategy and discuss how companies can develop a comprehensive plan to enter and succeed in global markets.1. Market Research and Analysis:The first step in creating an internationalization strategy is conducting thorough market research and analysis. Companies need to identify potential target markets by considering factors such as market size, growth rate, competitive landscape, cultural differences, and regulatory environment. This research will help in making informed decisions about which markets offer the best opportunities for growth and profitability.2. Adaptation and Localization:Once the target markets have been identified, companies must adapt their products or services to suit the preferences and needs of the local consumers. Localization involves customizing marketing messages, product packaging, pricing, and distribution channels. By tailoring their offerings to local tastes and preferences, companies can increase their chances of success in foreign markets.3. Partnering and Collaborations:Entering new markets can be challenging, especially for companieswith limited knowledge and resources. To mitigate these challenges, companies can consider partnering with local businesses or forming collaborations with established companies in the target market. This can provide valuable market insights, access to distribution channels, and help in navigating cultural and regulatory complexities.4. Talent Acquisition and Training:Having the right talent is crucial for implementing an internationalization strategy successfully. Companies should invest in recruiting and training employees who possess cross-cultural competencies, language skills, and a deep understanding of the target market. This will help in building strong relationships with local stakeholders and adapting quickly to changing market dynamics.5. Technological Integration:In today's digital age, technology plays a vital role in international business operations. Adopting technology solutions, such as e-commerce platforms, supply chain management systems, and customer relationship management (CRM) software, can improve efficiency, reduce costs, and enhance customer experience. Furthermore, companies should leverage social media and digital marketing strategies to promote their products and communicate with international customers effectively.6. Risk Management:Entering global markets also comes with certain risks and uncertainties. Companies must assess and manage risks associated with currency fluctuations, political instability, legal issues, andcultural differences. Developing contingency plans, diversifying the customer base, and establishing local partnerships can help in mitigating these risks and ensuring business continuity.7. Continuous Evaluation and Adaptation: Internationalization is an ongoing process that requires constant evaluation and adaptation. Companies should regularly monitor market trends, customer preferences, and competitive dynamics to identify new growth opportunities or adapt their strategies accordingly. Conducting post-entry evaluations and seeking feedback from local customers can provide invaluable insights for refining the internationalization strategy.Conclusion:In an increasingly globalized world, companies cannot afford to ignore the potential offered by international markets. By developing a comprehensive internationalization strategy that includes market research, adaptation, partnerships, talent acquisition, technological integration, risk management, and continuous evaluation, companies can position themselves for success in the global arena. While challenges may arise, the rewards of expanding into global markets can be immense, including increased market share, revenue growth, and enhanced brand reputation.Expanding into global markets can present numerous opportunities for companies, but it also comes with its own set of challenges. In this section, we will further discuss some key considerations and strategies that companies can employ as they embark on their internationalization journey.8. Cultural Awareness and Sensitivity:Culture plays a significant role in shaping consumer behavior and preferences. Therefore, companies must invest in understanding the cultural nuances of the target market. This includes familiarizing themselves with local customs, traditions, language, and business etiquette. By demonstrating cultural awareness and sensitivity, companies can build trust and establish strong relationships with local customers and stakeholders.9. Pricing and Competitive Strategy:Setting the right pricing strategy is essential when entering foreign markets. Companies need to consider factors such as local purchasing power, competitive pricing, and cost structures. It may be necessary to adjust pricing to reflect market realities and the value proposition being offered. Additionally, companies should evaluate their competitive strategy by analyzing local competitors, differentiating their products or services, and identifying unique selling points that resonate with the target market.10. Regulatory Compliance:Regulations and legal frameworks can vary significantly from one country to another. Companies need to ensure compliance with local laws and regulations, which may involve obtaining licenses, permits, or certifications. Engaging with local legal counsel or consultants familiar with the foreign market can help navigate these complexities and ensure proper adherence to regulatory requirements.11. Supply Chain Management:Effectively managing the supply chain is critical for successful internationalization. Companies must evaluate their logisticalcapabilities, including shipping, warehousing, and distribution. They should consider establishing local partnerships or utilizing third-party logistics providers to ensure efficient and timely delivery of products or services to the target market. An optimized supply chain can help reduce costs, improve customer satisfaction, and enhance overall operational efficiency.12. Intellectual Property Protection:Protecting intellectual property (IP) is crucial when entering global markets. Companies need to be aware of their IP rights and ensure they have necessary safeguards in place. This may involve registering trademarks, patents, or copyrights in the target market and implementing robust IP protection policies. In some cases, companies may need to modify their products or services to comply with local IP regulations.13. Marketing and Branding Strategy:Developing an effective marketing and branding strategy is essential for gaining traction in new markets. Companies must tailor their marketing messages, advertisements, and promotional campaigns to resonate with the local audience. This may involve localizing marketing material, utilizing local influencers or endorsers, and leveraging digital marketing platforms that are popular in the target market. A strong brand presence coupled with effective marketing strategies can help companies establish themselves as trusted and preferred brands in the foreign market.14. Competitive Intelligence and Market Trends:International markets are highly dynamic, with ever-changing consumer demands and competitive landscapes. Companies mustinvest in gathering competitive intelligence and monitoring market trends to stay ahead of the curve. This involves analyzing competitors' strategies, identifying potential market disruptors, and adapting quickly to changing consumer preferences or emerging industry trends. Leveraging data analytics and market research can provide valuable insights for informed decision-making and proactive adaptation.15. Scaling and Replication:Once a company achieves success in one foreign market, it may consider scaling and replicating its internationalization strategy in other markets. The lessons learned and best practices identified can be applied to new target markets, thereby reducing risks and accelerating growth. However, it is crucial to recognize that each market is unique, and a comprehensive market analysis should be conducted to determine the feasibility and adaptability of the strategy in new markets.In conclusion, expanding into global markets requires a comprehensive and well-executed internationalization strategy. By conducting thorough market research, adapting to the local culture and preferences, forming strategic partnerships, acquiring and developing talent, leveraging technology, managing risks, and continuously evaluating and adapting their strategies, companies can position themselves for success in the global marketplace. Internationalization may present challenges, but the potential rewards of increased market share, revenue growth, and enhanced brand reputation make it a worthwhile endeavor for companies looking to expand their horizons.。
邀请了专家英语作文Title: The Art of Inviting an Expert: A Guide to Eloquent Correspondence。
In today's interconnected world, inviting experts to contribute to projects, events, or discussions has become commonplace. However, crafting an invitation that is both respectful and persuasive requires finesse. This guide explores the nuances of extending invitations to experts in English, ensuring clarity, professionalism, and effectiveness.1. Introduction。
Inviting an expert is more than a mere formality;it's an opportunity to establish connections, exchange knowledge, and advance endeavors. Whether seeking input on a research project, soliciting a keynote speaker for an event, or requesting participation in a panel discussion, the art of invitation sets the tone for collaboration.2. Understanding the Expert。
Logistics物流1、The council of logistics management,logistics is the process of planning, implementing, and controlling the efficient, effective flow and storage of goods, services and related information from point of origin to point of consumption for the purpose of conforming to customer requirements.对物流管理,物流是计划,执行,控制有效,有效流动和储存的货物,服务及相关信息从原产地到以满足客户需求为目的的消费点。
2、The logistics value proposition物流价值命题It has been established that logistics should be managed as an intergrated effort to achieve customer satisfaction at the lowest total cost. 它已被建立,物流应作为一个整体的努力以最低的总成本实现客户满意度管理。
3、The work of logistics 物流工作There are five areas of logistics work: 有物流五个领域的工作:1、Order processing: The processing of these orders inorder all aspects of managing customer requirements from initical order receipt, delivery, invoicing, to collection.订单处理:为了管理所有方面的客户要求从初始订单,发货,开票的订单处理,收集。
外文资料名称:Value-Based Management ofSoftware Testing外文资料出处:Institute of SoftwareTechnology & Interactive System/research/valuebased-management-software-testing/ 附件: 1.外文资料翻译译文2.外文原文基于价值的软件测试管理作者:鲁道夫,斯蒂芬,保罗译:荣子健摘要:根据研究表明测试已经成为软件开发过程中一个很重要的环节,它占据了整个软件开发成本的百分之三十到五十。
然而测试往往没有重视到商业价值,也可能与预期的目标不一致。
路径测试、分支测试、功能测试、异常测试、场景测试以及需求测试等对于软件来说都是同等重要的。
然而在实践中百分之八十的价值往往来自百分之二十的软件。
为了从软件测试中得到最大的投资回报,我们通过测试管理最大化软件的价值。
在本章,我们将详细解释对基于价值的软件测试,阐述支持基于价值的测试实施,建立基于价值的测试管理的框架,并举例说明该框架。
关键词: 基于价值的软件测试,基于价值的测试,测试成本,测试收益,测试管理11.1 前言测试是软件质量保证过程中最重要和最广泛使用的方法。
校验和验证旨在通过需求分析, 测试软件来确保其正确运行功能,保证软件的质量和软件的可靠性。
在IEEE610.12(1990)中,测试被定义为“在规定条件下运行系统对组件进行观察和记录,并对系统或者组件进行评价的活动”。
测试在实践过程中被广泛的使用,质量保证策略在诸多组织中扮演着重要的角色。
软件影响着成千上万人的日常生活,担负着巨大的任务。
因此软件在不久的将来将显得尤为重要。
研究表明,测试通常消耗软件开发成本的30%至50%。
对于安全危急系统,甚至更高的比例也不足为奇。
因此软件测试面临的挑战就是为了进行高效的测试而寻找更多的合理途径。
软件测试管理的价值在于努力减少测试成本和满足用户需求。
英语作文万能负面理由Disadvantages: A Comprehensive Compilation for Negative Expositions.In the realm of discourse, it is imperative to present perspectives that encompass both the favorable and unfavorable aspects of a given topic. While extolling the virtues of an idea, product, or course of action can be compelling, it is equally essential to acknowledge and address potential drawbacks. This comprehensive guide will provide a plethora of negative reasons that can lend depth and nuance to any expository writing.1. Financial Considerations:High initial investment: The acquisition or implementation of the subject matter may requiresubstantial upfront costs, potentially creating financial strain.Ongoing expenses: Recurring costs associated with maintenance, repairs, or upgrades can accumulate over time, diminishing the overall value proposition.Hidden costs: Unexpected expenses may arise due to unforeseen circumstances, such as warranty issues or hidden defects, further depleting financial resources.2. Time Constraints:Time-consuming process: The implementation, execution, or completion of the endeavor may require extensive time commitments, potentially interfering with other important tasks or obligations.Delayed results: The benefits or outcomes of the action may not be realized promptly, leading to frustration and disappointment in the interim.Missed opportunities: While engaged in the pursuit of the subject matter, other valuable opportunities may be missed or neglected.3. Practical Limitations:Technical difficulties: The existence of technical glitches, malfunctions, or compatibility issues can hinder the smooth functioning or use of the subject matter.Logistical challenges: Factors such as geographical constraints, access to resources, or availability of expertise may complicate the execution or realization of the idea.Safety concerns: Potential risks or hazards associated with the subject matter may raise safety concerns, necessitating additional precautions or safety measures.4. Environmental Impact:Resource depletion: The extraction, production, or use of the subject matter may contribute to the depletion of natural resources, such as energy, water, or minerals.Pollution: Emissions, waste, or byproducts generated by the subject matter can have detrimental effects on the environment and human health.Ecological disruption: The introduction or use of the subject matter may disrupt ecosystems, leading to loss of biodiversity or habitat destruction.5. Social and Ethical Considerations:Negative social impact: The implementation or adoption of the subject matter may have adverse consequences on social dynamics, including polarization, inequality, or discrimination.Ethical concerns: The subject matter may conflict with ethical principles or values, such as privacy violations, labor exploitation, or animal cruelty.Unintended consequences: Well-intentioned actions may inadvertently lead to negative outcomes, such as unintended harms or unforeseen societal problems.Additional Negative Reasons:Ineffectiveness: The subject matter may fail toachieve its intended purpose or produce the desired results, proving to be a waste of resources and effort.Complexity: The subject matter may be highly complexor technical, requiring specialized knowledge or expertiseto understand and implement effectively.Lack of support: The idea, product, or action may lack widespread support or acceptance, potentially hindering its adoption or implementation.Reputation damage: Engaging in or promoting thesubject matter may have negative consequences for one's reputation or standing in the community.Legal implications: Certain actions or activities may be prohibited by law or regulation, resulting in legal penalties or consequences.Conclusion:By incorporating these negative reasons into expository writing, authors can provide readers with a balanced and comprehensive perspective on the topic at hand. Acknowledging potential drawbacks adds depth andcredibility to arguments and allows for a more nuanced and informed evaluation of the subject matter. Whether discussing a groundbreaking technology, a contentious policy, or a personal experience, presenting both the advantages and disadvantages ensures a well-rounded and intellectually stimulating discourse.。
你工作中很成功的一个项目的英语作文The Successful Launch of Our New Product LineIt is with great pride and satisfaction that I reflect on the successful launch of our company's latest product line. This project was a true testament to the power of teamwork, strategic planning, and unwavering dedication, and it has cemented our position as a leading innovator in our industry.The journey began over a year ago when our executive team recognized the need to expand our product offerings to meet the evolving demands of our customers. We knew that in order to stay ahead of the competition, we would need to develop a line of products that not only addressed the pain points of our target market but also showcased our commitment to innovation and quality.The first crucial step was assembling a cross-functional team of experts from various departments, including research and development, marketing, operations, and finance. This diverse groupof individuals brought a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the table, and their collaborative efforts were instrumental in shaping the direction of the project.One of the key challenges we faced early on was conducting thorough market research to understand the needs and preferences of our customers. We implemented a comprehensive survey, held focus groups, and analyzed industry trends to gain a deep understanding of the competitive landscape and the features that would be most valued by our target audience.Armed with this invaluable data, our research and development team got to work, meticulously designing and prototyping a series of products that we believed would resonate with our customers. The process was not without its challenges, as we navigated complex technical hurdles and engaged in numerous rounds of testing and refinement. However, the dedication and innovation of our R&D experts ensured that we remained on track and continued to push the boundaries of what was possible.Concurrent with the product development phase, our marketing team sprang into action, crafting a compelling brand identity and developing a comprehensive marketing strategy. They worked closely with our designers to create eye-catching packaging and promotional materials that would capture the essence of our newproduct line and effectively communicate its unique value proposition.As the launch date approached, we turned our attention to the logistical challenges of bringing our products to market. Our operations team worked tirelessly to ensure that our supply chain was optimized, our production processes were streamlined, and our distribution channels were primed and ready to handle the anticipated demand.The culmination of our efforts came on the day of the official product launch, which was met with overwhelming enthusiasm from our customers. The launch event was a resounding success, with throngs of eager consumers lining up to be among the first to experience our new offerings. The positive feedback we received was truly gratifying, and it validated the countless hours of hard work and dedication that had gone into this project.In the months that followed, our new product line continued to exceed our expectations, consistently outperforming our sales projections and cementing our reputation as a forward-thinking and innovative company. The success of this project has had a ripple effect throughout our organization, inspiring our teams to continue pushing the boundaries of what is possible and to never settle for anything less than excellence.One of the most remarkable aspects of this project's success was the level of collaboration and communication that was fostered throughout the entire process. Our cross-functional team worked seamlessly together, breaking down silos and sharing information freely. This allowed us to identify and address challenges quickly, make informed decisions, and ultimately deliver a product that exceeded the expectations of our customers.Another key factor in our success was the unwavering support and guidance of our executive leadership. They provided the necessary resources, empowered our team to take calculated risks, and championed our efforts at every turn. Their unwavering commitment to innovation and their willingness to invest in the long-term success of the company were instrumental in driving this project to its successful conclusion.As I look back on this project, I am filled with a deep sense of pride and accomplishment. The successful launch of our new product line has not only strengthened our market position but has also inspired our team to continue reaching for new heights. We have proven that with a clear vision, a talented and dedicated team, and a commitment to excellence, anything is possible.Moving forward, we are already laying the groundwork for our nextbig project, drawing on the lessons learned and the momentum gained from this recent success. We are confident that by continuing to innovate, collaborate, and stay true to our core values, we will be able to deliver even more groundbreaking products and services that will cement our reputation as a true industry leader.In conclusion, the successful launch of our new product line is a testament to the power of teamwork, strategic planning, and unwavering dedication. It has been a truly rewarding experience, and I am honored to have been a part of this remarkable journey. As we look to the future, I am excited to see what other challenges and opportunities lie ahead, and I am confident that our team is more than ready to rise to the occasion.。
The Logistical Value PropositionFrom supply chain logistics management chapter 2 by Donald J.bowersoxPreface:T hus far it has been established that logistics should be managed as an integrated effort to achieve customer satisfaction at the lowest total cost. Logistics performed in this manner creates value.In this section, the elements of the logistical value proposition, service, and cost minimization are discussed in greater detail.Service BenefitsAlmost any level of logistical service can be achieved if a firm is willing to commit the required resources. In today's operating environment, the limiting factor is economics,not technology. For example, a dedicated inventory can be maintained in close geographical proximity to a major customer. A fleet of trucks can be held in a constant state of delivery readiness. To facilitate order processing, dedicated communications can be maintained on a real time basis between a customer and a supplier's logistical operation. Given this high state of logistical readiness,a product or component could be delivered within minutes of identifying a customer requirement. Availability is even faster when a supplier agrees to consign inventory at a customer's facility, eliminating the need to perform logistical operations when a product is needed. The logistics to support consignment are completed in advance of the customer's need for the product. While such extreme service commitment might constitute a sales manager's dream, it is costly and typically not necessary to support most customer expectation and manufacturing operations.The key strategic issue is how to outperform competitors in a cost-effective manner.If a specific material is not available when required for manufacturing, it may force a plant shutdown resulting in significant cost, potential lost sales, and even the loss of a major customer's business. The profit impact of such failures is significant.In contrast, the profit impact of an unexpected 1 - or 2-day delay in delivering products to replenish warehouse inventory could be minimal or even insignificant in terms of impact on overall operational performance. In most situations, the costtbenefit impact of logistical failure is directly related to the importance of service to the customer. The more significant the service failure impact upon a customer's performance, thegreater is the priority placed on error-free logistical performance.Creation and basic logistical performance is measured in terms of availability,operational performance, and service reliability.The term basic logistics service describes the level of service a firm provides all established customers.Availability involves having inventory to consistently meet customer material or product requirements. The traditional paradigm has been the great desired availability,The larger the required inventory amount and cost. Information technology that facilitates system flexibility is providing new ways to achieve high availability for customers without correspondingly high capital investment in the rmation that facilitates availability is critical to achieving lean logistics performance.Operational performance deals with the time required to deliver a customer's order. Operational performance involves delivery speed and consistency. Naturally,most customers want fast delivery. However, fast delivery is of limited value if inconsistent from one order to the next. A customer gains little benefit when a supplierpromises next-day delivery but frequently delivers late. To achieve smooth operations, firms typically focus on service consistency first and then seek to improve delivery speed. Other aspects of operational performance are also important. A firm's operational performance can be viewed in terms of its flexibility to accommodate unusual and unexpected customer requests. Another aspect of operational performance is frequency of malfunction and, when such malfunction occurs, the required recovery time. Few firms can perform perfectly all the time. It is important to estimate the likelihood of something going wrong. Malfunction is concerned with the probability of logistical performance involving failures, such as damaged products, incorrect assortment,or inaccurate documentation. When such malfunctions occur, a firm's logistical competency can be measured in terms of recovery time. Operational performance is concerned with how a firm handles all aspects of customer requirements, including service failure, on a day in and day- out basis.Service reliability involves the quality attributes of logistics. The key to quality is accurate measurement of availability and operational performance. Only throughcomprehensive performance measurement is it possible to determine if overall logistical operations are achieving desired service goals. To achieve service reliability, it is essential to identify and implement inventory availability and operational performance measurements. For logistics performance to continuously meet customer expectations, it is essential that management be committed to continuous improvement. Logistical quality does not come easy; it's the product of careful planning supported by employee training, operational dedication, comprehensive measurement, and continuous improvement. To improve service performance, goals need to be established on a selective basis. Some products are more critical than others because of their importance to the customer and their relative profit contribution.The level of basic logistical service should be realistic in terms of customer expectations and requirements. In most cases, firms confront situations wherein customers have significantly different purchase potential. Some customers require unique or special value-added services. Thus, managers must realize that customers are different and that services provided must be matched to accommodate unique requirements and purchase potential. In general, firms tend to be overly optimistic when committing to average or basic customer service performance. Inability to consistently meet an unrealistically high basic service target might result in more operating and customer relationship problems than if less ambitious goals had been attempted from the outset. Unrealistic across-the-board service commitments can also dilute a firm's capability to satisfy special requirements of high potential customers.Cost MinimizationThe focus of lean logistics can be traced to relatively recent developments of total costing theory and practice. In 1956, a classic monograph describing airfreight economics provided a new perspective concerning logistical cost.' In an effort to explain conditions under which high-cost air transport could be justified, Lewis, Culliton, and Steele conceptualized the total cost logistics model. Total cost was positioned to include all expenditures necessary to perform logistical requirements. The authors illustrated an electronic parts distribution strategy wherein the highvariable cost of direct factory-to-customer air transport was more than offset by reductions in traditional inventory and field warehouse costs. They concluded that the least total cost logistical way to provide the desired customer service was to centralize inventory in one warehouse and make deliveries using air transportation.This concept of total cost, although fundamentally basic, had not previously been applied to logistical operations. Probably because of the economic climate of the times and the radical departure to traditional practice,the total cost proposition generated a great deal of debate. The prevailing managerial practice, reinforced by accounting and financial control, was to focus attention on achieving the lowest possible cost for each individual function of logistics with little or no attention to integrated total trade-off. Managers had traditionally focused on minimizing functional cost, such as transportation,with the expectation that such effort would achieve the lowest combined costs. Development of the total cost concept opened the door to examining how functional costs interrelate and impact each other. Subsequent refinements provided a more comprehensive understanding of logistical cost components and identified the critical need for developing functional cost analysis and activity-based costing capabilities. However,the implementation of effective logistical process costing remains a 21st-century challenge. Many long-standing practices of accounting continue to serve as barriers to fully implementing total cost logistical solutions.Logistics Value GenerationThe key to achieving logistical leadership is to master the art of matching operating competency and commitment to key customer expectations and requirements. This customer commitment, in an exacting cost framework, is the logistics value proposition.It is a unique commitment of a firm to an individual or selected groups of its customers.The typical enterprise seeks to develop and implement an overall logistical competency that satisfies customer expectations at a realistic total cost expenditure. Very seldom will either the lowest total cost or the highest attainable customer service constitute the fundamental logistics strategy. Likewise, the appropriate combinationwill be different for different customers. A well-designed logistical effort must have high customer response and capability while controlling operational variance and minimizing inventory commitment. And, most of all, it must have relevancy to specific customers.Significant advances have been made in the development of tools to aid management in the measurement of cost/service trade-offs. Formulation of a sound strategy requires a capability to estimate operating cost required to achieve alternative service levels. Likewise, alternative levels of system performance are meaningless unless viewed in terms of overall business unit marketing, manufacturing, and procurement strategies.Leading firms realize that a well-designed and well-operated logistical system can help achieve competitive advantage. In fact, as a general rule, firms that obtain a strategic advantage based on logistical competency establish the nature of their industry'scompetition.。