Import and Export.

In your role as the head of global ventures, you also oversee the acquisition of materials for finished products. Several material costs are growing, and you have been warned that one key material may face a shortage in the next six months. You must now figure out what to do to help control the costs and keep production flowing smoothly. One of your team members has suggested sourcing from suppliers in other countries. Others have suggested changing the materials the company uses (though you are not certain how that may affect your products).

Explain the plan you will take to go forward, including what you need to research or test within the company and what you need to research about your potential new suppliers. Share the criteria that will impact your overall decision, and identify the final decision that you are leaning toward. Justify your position.