New Alliance Focuses Efforts On Supply-Chain Risk Management

Compiled ByJill Jusko Global risk consulting firm Protiviti Inc. is teaming up with APICS-The Educational Society for Resource Management to bring supply-chain risk-management thought leadership to business. The two organizations are marking the launch of their alliance with the release of a white paper, "Capitalizing on Sarbanes-Oxley Compliance to Build Supply Chain Advantage: A Back-to-Basics Approach to Internal Control and Supply Chain Integrity." The 15-page PDF details the relationship between supply-chain functions and financial reporting data required by the legislation, noting quite accurately that "ineffective supply-chain operations not only drive inefficiencies but also increase the likelihood of financial misstatement." The white paper then offers a multiphased approach to achieving transaction integrity within supply-chain processes. "Supply chain technology, principles and best practices continue to evolve at a rapid pace," says Bob Collins, 2003 APICS president. "APICS is pleased to join with Protiviti in providing education and information on the Sarbanes-Oxley Act to the inventory and supply-chain-management communities." The complete white paper is available at both the Protiviti and APICs Web sites. APICs is based in Alexandria, Va.