In today's global markets, many companies source, produce, transport and sell products internationally. Firms seek to maximize potential sales, while minimizing costs and production/distribution time. In this environment, explain the strategic importance of the operations and supply chain management function.

Be sure to address:

• How can a company use operations/supply chain management to make them more competitive?
• Why is cost control so important with competing with other firms?
• How have global factors come into play?