Better Business Decisions Using Cost Modeling: For Procurement, Operations, and Supply Chain Professionals

Information is power in supply chain operations, negotiations, continuous improvement programs, and process improvement, and indeed in all aspects of managing an operation. Accurate and timely information can result in better decisions that translate int

Victor E. Sower is a distinguished professor emeritus of operations management at Sam Houston State University (SHSU). Before entering the academic arena at SHSU, Vic worked for 18 years in a variety of manufacturing positions, including process engineer and process development engineering manager for Ampex Corp. At SHSU he taught courses in operations management, supply chain management, quality management, and technology and innovation management and established the Sower Business Technology Laboratory in the College of Business. Christopher H. Sower is director of strategic sourcing for ConocoPhillips in Houston, Texas. Prior to his employment at ConocoPhillips, Chris worked 11 years in a variety of supply chain, procurement, and management information systems (MIS) positions, including business systems analyst for Texaco, strategic sourcing analyst for ChevronTexaco, strategic sourcing specialist for ChevronTexaco, category manager for Limited Brands, and director of strategic procurement for Charming Shoppes. Chris has a BS in psychology and an MBA from Sam Houston State University.