Journal of Applied Business and Economics

Global Business Management:
Current Trends and Practices
Michael Wisma
Saint Joseph College of Indiana

Today, problems associated with global business management have been identified as factors that negatively impact the performance and productivity of multinational corporations and in turn, adversely affect regional and national economic growth. While factors related to logistics and distribution are important when selecting international suppliers, they are inadequate when considered in isolation of internal and external forces. This paper engages in a comprehensive and systematic analysis of global supply chain management, particularly in terms of micro and macro cultural considerations.
INTRODUCTION
Organizations are facing increased global competition, economic uncertainties, and changing markets. Technology is changing the way we conduct business and manage information.
Outsourcing of significant functions within businesses and organizations complicates the landscape of supplier relations. Suppliers and vendor partners may be located in the same city, region or country. But they are just as likely to be located halfway around the world, adding new challenges to business management.
The growth of international strategic partnerships has risen exponentially in the last twenty years. Competing in a global marketplace has made it increasingly important to align business strategies with a risk management strategy that includes strengthening global supply chains and vendor partnerships. As Wiley points out, “In the near future, it is supply chains that will compete, not companies” (Wiley, 2004). Global supply chains must be carefully selected and monitored to ensure the competitive edge required to achieve success in the global market place.
Typically, the first order of business has been