1. Johnathan Robert suggested that segmenting their suppliers would enable supply base optimization. Utilize the Internet to research ways to segment suppliers. Find at least three categories of segmentation and explain how these support supply base optimization.

2. Although Mr. Butler agreed with Johnathan’s idea about renegotiating contracts with suppliers, he did have a major concern. Was Mr. Butler proposing they engage in collaborative or distributive negotiations? Explain what attributes of the specific type of negotiations you picked. Support your choice and how they relate to Mr. Butler’s concern.

3. Go to APICS, http://www.apics.org/docs/default-source/scc-non-research/apicsscc_scor_quick_reference_guide.pdf and download the Quick Reference Guide. In the section titled SCOR Metrics, select one metric from three of the five categories (reliability, responsiveness, agility, cost, and assessment management efficiency) and explain in your view how the metrics can lead to benchmark improvements and indicate best practices.