Penn State Smeal College of Business

Evolving economic conditions, rapidly changing global and industry dynamics and the maturing of the industry suggest the capabilities and uses of 3PLs have evolved considerably over the sixteen years of this study. To assess these changes, the study team uses four complementary channels of research.

There is increasing pressure on both U.S. gateways and inland transportation to meet growing freight transportation needs. However, U.S. transportation infrastructure is fast approaching its capacity, and capability to invest in this critical sector is limited. Added to the infrastructure capacity constraints are escalated fuel prices and growing concern about climate change.

The Master of Professional Studies in Supply Chain Management (MPS/SCM) is a 30 credit, two-year online degree program designed to fit the schedules of working professionals. The curriculum - grounded in proven theory, best business practices, and emerging innovation - enables students to examine supply chain processes from managing information technology enabled logistics to crafting supply chain strategy. Graduates will be prepared to design and lead the future's most effective supply chains.

This report was originally tailored to the request of an electronics manufacturer, to explore emerging markets and the political and economic barriers to direct investment. The various business risks that influence supply chain risk as a whole are discussed.