Institute for Supply Management® Takes Bold Step to Cover Full Supply Chain Management

The Institute for Supply Management® (ISM®) has made a significant announcement, marking a transformative shift in its mission and offerings. As of March 18, 2025, ISM will expand its focus from traditional supply management to encompass end-to-end supply chain management. This strategic move highlights ISM's commitment to staying relevant in a rapidly evolving industry landscape while addressing the growing needs of supply chain professionals worldwide.

Founded over a century ago, ISM has continuously evolved to support practitioners. Historically, the organization focused primarily on procurement; however, it recognized that today’s supply chains require a more comprehensive approach. The shift to end-to-end supply chain management is not only a response to the profession's evolution but also a proactive measure to equip professionals with the necessary tools and knowledge to excel in their roles.

According to ISM CEO Thomas W. Derry, this expansion is a pivotal moment for the organization. 'Our new focus underscores our commitment to innovation and excellence as we lead the supply chain profession into a new era,' he stated. 'We aim to provide the comprehensive support that organizations need in this complex environment.' The newly framed mission seeks to advance the practice of integrated supply chain management while leveraging leading-edge data-driven resources, community support, and educational initiatives. With these offerings, ISM aims to empower individuals, create organizational value, and drive a competitive advantage for its members.

ISM’s updated vision is to foster a prosperous and sustainable world, reflecting a commitment to broader societal goals alongside professional development. This strategic shift underscores that the organization views supply management as an integrated process extending across all operational areas, including planning, sourcing, production, and delivery.

To further support this initiative, ISM is ramping up its educational offerings, introducing innovative courses and resources tailored to meet the demands of the end-to-end supply chain landscape. Highlights include a Logistics and Materials Management certification and a range of instructor-led and self-paced virtual learning opportunities, such as courses on logistics, warehousing, inventory management, and emerging trends in logistics. The goal is to ensure that supply chain practitioners are equipped with the necessary skills to navigate today’s complexities efficiently.

In enhancing its educational portfolio, ISM has also initiated programs specifically designed for logistics-related functions. With the success of existing programs, the organization is eager to expand its reach and impact. The launch of new courses on critical aspects of supply chain logistics showcases ISM’s determination to lead the way in supply chain education and professional development.

As the first and most prominent not-for-profit supply management organization globally, ISM is strategically positioned to offer in-depth expertise that spans the entire end-to-end supply chain. Continuous research and discussions with industry practitioners have confirmed the need for such expansions, as the demand for holistic understanding and integrated operations continues to grow.

With this move, ISM solidifies its role as a leader in shaping the future of supply chain management education and practice. The organization encourages all stakeholders in the supply chain ecosystem to engage with these new offerings, as they promise to equip practitioners with valuable insights and strategies for navigating an increasingly complex marketplace.

For those interested in learning more about the new logistics initiatives, courses, and educational resources offered by ISM, additional information can be found on their official website. As the world of supply management continues to evolve, ISM’s proactive approach to enhancing educational pathways signals a bright future for professionals in the field.

Topics Business Technology)

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