Supply Chain Metrics that Matter

Chapter 7What Drives Value in the Value Network?Industry Progress in the Industrial Value Chain

It was our last day together. Normally, I show up early and set up for a session, but not today. I was late.

I grimaced as I entered the room. I like to be punctual. However, to my surprise and delight, the group had started the session without me. So I just sat down and listened as the dialogue evolved.

It had been a rough morning for Frank. Last night, he drove Jeff to dinner. A man with a heavy foot, he was eager to demonstrate the capabilities of his new, red Porsche. On the way to dinner, Frank put the top down and floored the gas to show Jeff the rapid acceleration. As he hurtled through a stop sign, police lights flashed blue. Red-faced, Frank was forced to pull over.

The policeman was a neighbor of Jeff's, so Frank got off with only a warning. However, it was a rallying point for the group to harass Frank that morning. Filipe piped up, “See, Frank, you may want to go fast, but we all have rules that we need to follow. Someday, you won't have Jeff to bail you out.”

Frank shook his head ruefully and asked, “I know you are having fun, but when is enough really enough? Seriously, haven't I paid my dues…? Just working with you guys is tough enough.”

Lou peered over his glasses, and smiled. He was having fun, but wanted to get the meeting back on track. He said, “Okay, we've had fun with Frank, but I think that it's time to move on.” He looked at Edgar and said, “I wonder if we ...