GOOD QUESTION | What’s the first thing to

Partnership, LogisticsCommon goals and transparency.Kamila OtrzasekQuality Manager, Zeebrugge Food LogisticsKnowledge of not only the logistics market but also the specific industry in which their client competes. An understanding of pain points, trends, and regulatory requirements.Kim McQuilken President, Sales & MarketingSpend Management ExpertsInnovation and continuous improvement are the first things to look for in a logistics relationship. Having these in place implies that other key qualities are already in place. The only constant in logistics and supply chain is change, so the ability to innovate鈥揳ctively listen, create/adapt, then implement and execute, and the ability to track improvement over time, creates a durable relationship with partners. Michael Notarangeli Executive Vice President, Logistics Maine PointeTop-tier logistics providers continue to grow with us. They know the strengths and networks of their partner carriers. Frank Hurst President, Roadrunner FreightBack to basics. Did they read the RFP and scope of work properly or just quote based on what they think you want or what fits their agenda? If they can’t read a tender document or have the initiative to ask questions, then can you trust them to deliver as an outsourced 3PL?James MeadsProcurement Consultant Strong support, services, and warranty programs that ensure uptime. Ravi Panjwani VP Marketing andProduct Management Brother Mobile SolutionsAbility to innovate. They should embrace advanced technologies such as AI and IoT, which are becoming more essential to providing differentiated customer service. Steve Dowse SVP Product Strategy Blume GlobalSimilar culture, vision, and values—such as a strong commitment to engaging employees. An organization’s ability to attract, retain, and optimize a quality workforce speaks to whether or not it will consistently rise to meet your service expectations.Robert O’Dwyer Logistics Industry Principal Kronos IncorporatedAn understanding of your company’s unique supply chain needs and a willingness to adjust their strategies and processes to support your needs.Gregory N. FornaroDirector, Labor Relationsand Logistics Wm. T. Burnett & Co.Transparency. Every shipper knows their logistics partners have to make some margin on providing a service, but the best partners will know what’s fair and reasonable. Cut the fluff and be transparent. Rafael QuintanaVice President of OperationsBig Truck LogisticsHave a great answer to a good question?Be sure to participate next month. We want to know:What’s the supply chain buzzword for 2020?We’ll publish some answers. Tell us at editorial@inboundlogistics.com or tweet us @ILMagazine #ILgoodquestion