Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) isn't new as a phrase or a concept. But it is evolving at a pace that's difficult for companies in the global supply chain to match.
And it has a lot to do with you.
From dog food to lead-painted toys to rumors of cardboard cupcakes, China's been taking it on the chin. So where does the fault lie? Really?
Is it with the buyer? The buyer designed the part, spec'd it out, and took responsibility.
Isn't it the suppliers' responsibility, as well? It absolutely is. If something is wrong in the design then, certainly, the supplier is beholden to say something when they see it.
And what about the gubmint? Does our FDA and import inspection (or lack thereof) bear some responsibility?
You're damned right. They all do.
As our manufacturing world adjusts to its business challenges and pitfalls (and overcomes them), we also try to figure out how to interact proactively with a global, expansive landscape. But how does a corporation or facility change its reputation if it needs to? How does a country repair its status with the global community? How do we, as manufacturers contribute to the world when we've only ever contributed to our neighborhood?
Better yet, how does a company or supplier prevent damage to a relationship before it happens while swimming successfully in the global bouillabaisse?
Partly, it's CSR. As you'll see in the following articles, the global supply chain has been affected by more than just the bottom line. There is karma in manufacturing, and it's likely that you're gonna be told how you'll get it.
