Jun 2007: Annual AMLF Policy Conference Report

NACFAM Begins Dialogue to Define Manufacturing Priorities for the 2008 Presidential Candidates - A New Education System for the 21st Century, Network-Centric Manufacturing Value Chain and Transitional Research Get Top Billing.

Nov 2006: The Network-Centric Innovation Imperative: How Manufacturers Work with Their Suppliers to Develop New Products

To better understand manufacturing innovation trends and their implications for federal policy, NIST’s Advanced Technology Program (ATP) asked NACFAM to take a fresh look at the changing nature of product development within manufacturing supply chains. Specifically, we asked: as the global marketplace becomes increasingly competitive, how do OEMs work with their suppliers to develop new products and processes? This study outlines the major stages of a “generic” product development process, the design and evolution of supply chain management practices, various strategies for involving suppliers in cost reduction, technology development, and the overall product development process. The report also makes several policy recommendations that seek to address emerging challenges.

Feb 2007: Supply Chain Integration: Key to Aligning the Network-Centric Enterprise

This document defines a strategy for Supply Chain Integration that can be use by both government and industry as a roadmap for R&D and a plan for investment. Specifically, the work contained herein is in support of a mandate from the National Science and Technology Interagency Working Group (IWG) on Manufacturing R&D.  The document was prepared by the Integrated Manufacturing Technology Initiative in concert with our partners, the National Coalition for Advanced Manufacturing and the University of Alabama at Huntsville.