ABSTRACT
The biggest obstacle to getting started with 3P might be convincing your organization that it is worth the time, cost, and risk to give it a try. Change requires leadership and conviction, especially without a crisis to create a “burning platform.” Most people can quickly grasp the concepts and recognize that 3P could have dramatic benefits. However, it can be challenging to overcome organizational inertia. Making a compelling case for change is critical. Consider an appropriate pilot to start with to demonstrate the power of 3P without the risk of a high-profile new product launch. A manufacturing expansion for an established product may be considered a safe starting point. Fortunately the number of case studies and success stories being published continues to increase, and hopefully the barriers to applying 3P will continue to drop.
