"Videostreaming is a vital technology for APICS, because it enables us to integrate video broadcasting with the vast reach of the World Wide Web," said Wendy Mann, CAE, APICS director of communications. "With videostreaming we can reach millions with our message that APICS education helps businesses improve their bottom line."

To view "APICS: Building America," users must first download and install free VDOLive software from a link on the APICS Web site. The APICS site provides instructions on the process and a list of frequently asked questions. Once VDOLive software is installed it allows users to view videos on other Web sites, as well.

The "APICS: Building America" video also is available in VHS format (priced at $19.95) as part of a package that includes introductory comments and information about how APICS members and chapters can use the video to increase awareness of the impact of APICS education. To order, call APICS Customer Service and request item #01222.

Global Competitiveness Insights Offered at E&R Foundation Forum

The APICS Educational and Research (E&R) Foundation is co-sponsoring a two-day program designed to help companies organize to compete in a global environment. Set for March 12-13 at the Caribe Hilton Hotel in San Juan, Puerto Rico, the forum will offer presentations on global issues including:

• How organizations should measure the performance of their facilities from both network and individual perspectives
  
  
• Emerging strategies that enable organizations to gain a global competitive advantage, including global trade agreements, information technology strategies, global logistics approaches, the use of the theory of constraints and more
  
  
• How to apply integrated resource management concepts in an international environment, including scheduling coordination, materials flow management and capacity allocation within a global context.

The forum also will feature representatives from companies that successfully compete in the international arena offering insights into the "how-tos" and "how-not-tos" of becoming globally competitive.

APICS-related speakers include Thomas R. Hoffmann, Ph.D., CFPIM, CIRM, 1998 APICS president and George W. Plossl, CFPIM, president, G.W. Plossl & Co. Other speakers include the president of Banco Popular, the vice president of GATX Logistics, representatives from the governments of Great Britain and Peru, the general manager of Intel Puerto Rico and noted authors and consultants.

For more information, including a registration form, contact Yvonne Huertas, CPA, CMA, at (787) 764-0000, ext. 4002, or by Huertas also can be contacted by e-mail at [email protected]