#Stock shortage means demand

[cathkaesque]

Statement on Israel’s Use of Starvation as a Weapon of War in Gaza by the Union of Agricultural Work Committees, Palestine

For five days, Israel has attacked Gaza with the aim of total destruction, and the situation is at an unprecedented level of urgency. Israel’s actions have amounted to a humanitarian catastrophe of unfathomable proportions. At the time of publication, the Palestinian Ministry of Health reports 1,055 martyrs and approximately 5,184 injured.

Israel has declared a total warfare stance on Gaza, imposing a ruthless blockade that denies over two million Palestinian residents of Gaza access to electricity, water, food, fuel, medical supplies, and any humanitarian aid. Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant explicitly stated this strategy on 9 October 2023, saying: “We are imposing a complete siege on [Gaza]. No electricity, no food, no water, no fuel – everything is closed. We are fighting human animals, and we act accordingly.”

Israel’s deliberate use of starvation as a weapon of war demands the international community immediately respond with unwavering urgency and resolve.

Israel is indiscriminately decimating hospitals, schools, mosques, markets, and entire neighborhoods. Further, Israel threatened Egypt that it would bomb humanitarian aid deliveries to Gaza, prompting Egypt to withdraw its aid convoys. The Rafah Crossing into Egypt, the sole international exit from Gaza, has been bombed by Israel three times in a 24-hour period. This calculated assault severs Gazans’ only means of escape from ceaseless bombings or access to essential humanitarian aid. With Israel cutting off Gaza’s source of electricity, the only source of power was the Gaza Power Plant, which has just run out of fuel. In the case that it receives more fuel, Israel has threatened to attack the plant.

Israel’s assault is deliberately destroying any infrastructure that allows Gazans to support themselves. Vital agricultural and fishing infrastructure, crucial for food production, have been mercilessly attacked. Fisher folk cannot access the sea, into which sewage is spilling. The seaport is damaged, and tools are obliterated. Farming areas, often near the fence, have become vulnerable targets in Israeli airstrikes, and farmers whose land has not been destroyed cannot access it for daily agricultural practices. The Ministry of Agriculture reports that the bombing has done immense damage to agricultural areas and poultry farms, but the conditions make it impossible to precisely assess the situation in the field. There is a catastrophic decrease in food stocks, with shops across Gaza reporting severe shortages. The land and sea will face unimaginable environmental damages following these attacks, further preventing efforts to rebuild livelihoods.

Israel’s strategy aims to ensure that those who survive the bombs are condemned to a future without sustenance.

OCHA reports that the assaults have disrupted the UNRWA food operation, impacting at least 112,759 families. The poultry and livestock sectors are on the brink of collapse due to the severe shortage of fodder, endangering the livelihoods of more than 1,000 herders and affecting over 10,000 producers. This jeopardizes the provision of animal protein and the availability of meat and fresh sources of protein for Gaza’s entire population. Transportation of poultry to markets has virtually halted, and dairy cattle milk cannot be refrigerated nor marketed to factories, resulting in an expected daily spoilage of 35,000 liters of milk. More than 4,000 fisheries are at risk due to the closure of the sea. Gaza’s agriculture, poultry, cattle, fish, and other products are suffering from a lack of refrigeration, irrigation, incubation, and other machinery due to electricity cuts, causing spoilage.

Israel’s use of these tactics is not new by any means. Before Saturday, around 65% of the Gazan population was food insecure. More than 46% of the agricultural land in Gaza was inaccessible, and the fishing industry was severely struggling since fishing off the coast of Gaza has been restricted by Israel to 3 to 6 nautical miles.

Food insecurity is a human-made crisis, and Israel is manufacturing a mass starvation of the Gazan people.

It is the moral and legal obligation of the international community to intervene and end this crisis immediately. Food, as a basic necessity, must be allowed to reach the people of Gaza, and the deliberate targeting of civilian infrastructure must cease without delay.

We call upon the international community to take immediate action to stop Israel’s massacre of the Gazan population, demand the lifting of the siege, and establish humanitarian corridors for entry of aid.

[zhounauts]

₊˚✩彡 — nutelloco for u ft. jake x f!reader warnings cursing wc 673 words

if there were zero fans of nutella acai bowls left on earth, that would mean that you were deceased, not breathing, and buried six feet underneath the ground.

so it was safe to say, when you went to the acai shop and were denied your order by the new, very cute cashier you were flabbergasted.

“what??” you ask, “you’re out of. . .the acai base??”

“yeah,” the boy says, “sorry about that, we’ve been having like uh some sort of shortage recently,”

“oh,” you mumble.

“you could get the nutelloco bowl instead! it’s similar, just coconut base,” he interjects eagerly.

“no, i’m good,” you sigh, “thanks though,”

“jake!”

“what?’

“oh uhm,” he mumbles, “i’m jake,”

“okay. . .?” he blinks at you, “i’m yn??” his blank face quickly widens into a bright smile.

“pretty name,” he tells you, “sorry about your bowl,”

you feel heat rushing to your face, before you quickly cough, “right, uhm, thanks, jake,”

“AGAIN??” you yell, much louder than you meant. you quickly quiet down, sending an apologetic look to other people in the shop, before slamming your hands down on the counter in front of you.

“okay,” you seethe, “let me get this straight jake,” he gulps. “an acai bowl shop is out of acai??”

“yes. . .” jake says meekly, “there’s a shortage! and like inflation and shit!,” he insists. you stare him down, “you could get the nutelloco bowl?”

“inflation and shit?? also why are you so set on making me order that??” you ask.

“it’s the same as the nutella bowl! just a different base,” he says, “just give it a try,”

“no thanks,” you mumble, “there better be acai tomorrow jake, or i will be fighting you,”

jake watches as you sulk out the door the second day in a row, glancing at your retreating figure. he can’t help but feel guilty as he stares at the very much full-stocked fridge full of frozen acai berries. one more try, or else jungwon might kill me for doing this

despite it being eight in the morning, you were on a mission.

you’re seething, fists clenched, as you stomp-walk down the pier to the acai shop, to confront a certain cashier about the fact that you know he has been lying to you, and preventing you from getting your order. you throw the door open, the door chime's smashing together, to find a very surprised jake setting up behind the register.

“oh you are so dead,” you exclaim, striding towards the cashier.

“morning. . .?” jake asks.

“don’t play with me,” you hiss, “i know you have that acai base, and you’re withholding it from me!” jake winces at your words, rubbing his neck in guilt.

"about that i-"

“don't give me a half-assed apology jake, you better give me a thesis statement on why you've been gatekeeping the nutella bowl from me and absolutely demanding me to get the nutelloco bowl! i know the nutella bowl's basic but it tastes really fucking good and i’ve been craving it—”

“cause i’m nutelloco for you?” he blurts. it comes out as a question, but as soon as you hear it, your words die in your throat.

“. . .what?” you ask, staring at the boy. his face goes red, and he crosses his arms awkwardly to stare at you.

“haha!” jake robotically laughs, “i was just joking actually! i’m sorry for what i did! i'll reflect and you can go report me to my boss, his name's jungwon, and his numbers actually 94850--”

“wait wait wait. let me get this straight,” you say, “you didn’t let me order what i want for the past two days because you wanted to use a cheesy pickup line on me??”

”yes. . .?” jake answers.

“you are a fucking dork,” you hiss, glaring at him.

“but did it work?” he asks. you can only stare at him, the words to deny him, stuck in your throat. you grumble, and turn away from the register, "did it?"

“get me that nutella bowl first, then we can talk whether or not i’m 'nutelloco' for you to,"

a/n stupid, short drabble but it is an ode to my love for acai bowls

@a-dream-bookmark

[star-trekkin-across-theuniverse]

Shortbread, part 6

word count: another micro part 811

tags: @bolontiku , @rampant-salamander , @castiels-sunflowers

part 1, part 2, part 3, part 4, part 5 (will link when I am on my laptop)

__________

In the aftermath of your clumsy lovemaking, it occured to you that maybe the reason you and Bucky had fit together so well in your time was because you’d been made for one another in his time. Except Bucky told you everything, and if he’d been previously married to someone who looked just like you, he would have said something. Steve would have said something when you’d first met. But you couldn’t shake the feeling that the reason your bodies had been so compatible in the future is because Bucky had learned his own body with you. At any rate, you reflected, breathless and snuggled into the hollow of his arm, Bucky had been an eager student, not once judging what was probably a scandalous amount of experience in his bride as you’d consummated the marriage.

“It’s like you were made for me,” he murmured, brushing a soft kiss across your forehead. “I feel like I’ve finally found where I belong, and I have to climb on a damn ship tomorrow and -”

“You talk too much, Buck.” You interrupted him by leaning up and pressing a kiss to his lips. “I don’t care about tomorrow. I care about tonight.” You slid your hand through his chest hair and shifted your weight against his hip.

“Mrs. Barnes, you are insatiable,” he hummed against your lips, his hand sliding across your hip.

“Shut up and make me remember you, Mr. Barnes,” you demanded, your voice husky.

__________

Too soon it was morning, and the daylight streaming in your window woke you both. You glanced at the clock, and assured it was still early, you slipped from Bucky’s arms to make him breakfast. In your time, you were anything but the model housewife. You barely cooked, you relied on Stark-Tech to clean, and you devoted as much time to your career as you did to your relationship with Bucky. He loved the advantages of modernity, loved your independence and advantages. But this was 1940s Bucky, and you didn’t want to hit him with more culture shock than he’d already experienced in the wedding bed. And you did make a mean breakfast. You thanked the stars you’d grown up camping with your grandparents as you sorted out how to make coffee with the percolator on the stovetop, and pulled eggs and bacon from the icebox to start cooking. You were about halfway through when the scent of hot bacon and fresh coffee pulled Bucky out of bed. He looked so innocently domestic in his white army issue boxers with nothing more than his dog tags hanging around his neck. The shadow of a beard was starting on his jaw, and ran your hand across the stubble, rubbing your fingernails against it with satisfaction. He dipped his head to kiss you good morning.

“It smells amazing in here.” His voice was rough with sleep. He reached over your shoulder and stole a slice of bacon out of the pan. “Where did you get bacon?”

“Let me have my secrets,” you teased. You actually had no idea how your kitchen had wound up so well stocked with the rationing that was going on. You poured him a cup of coffee and handed it to him.

“I was half worried that you’d run when you woke up this morning,” he admitted. You stopped turning the bacon and raised an eyebrow at him.

“James Buchanan Barnes,” you laughed. “Don’t play insecure with me! You’re handsome and tall and brave. A girl could do so much worse. Why would I run away?”

“Because I’m shipping out in a few hours and maybe you think you made a mistake,” he shrugged.

“And there’s a war out there, and there’s a shortage of good men as a result. I might never get another chance. It’s not like fellas are lining up to marry a nurse.” You had to think on your feet. You knew some history but hoped it was enough that you didn’t seem completely deranged to him.

“I think nurses are doing okay for themselves,” he teased, leaning in to kiss you. “You’re sure?���

The puppy dog eyes through his thick lashes killed you. This was closer to the Bucky you knew so well. The insecurity, bred from multiple lifetimes of being used like a machine, it was so similar to this Bucky’s uncertainty about your decision.

“I’m certain.” You met his eyes and nodded. “Whatever comes, Bucky, I’m not turning back on this decision.”

“I think I might just fall in love with you, Mrs. Barnes.” The tense wrinkles in his forehead relaxed and he cupped your face in his hands, leaning in for a gentle kiss.

“That’s kind of the idea,” you teased. “Make you love me so much you have to find your way back to me. No matter what.”

“I promise,” he swore, kissing you again.

[rjzimmerman]

Massachusetts Land Trust to Tackle Affordable Housing and Land Conservation in One Project. (Sierra Club)

Excerpt from this story from Sierra Club:

In Easthampton, Massachusetts, there isn’t much open land left. The area’s housing shortage means that most unprotected areas are attractive lots for real estate developers to add stock to this post-industrial artist’s haven, where old mill buildings house studios turning out pottery and paintings and new restaurants and microbreweries. The skyrocketing demand for housing then prices out land conservationists who aim to protect wildlife and air and water quality, and connect residents with nature. A new project in the city seeks to overcome the either-or narrative between sprawling cul-de-sacs and conservation, a shift rippling throughout the conservation movement. On a 53-acre parcel of land in this former mill town, Kestrel Land Trust will conserve 42 acres and will work with a partner organization to develop the other 11 acres into affordable housing. 

“We’re dealing with a climate crisis, a biodiversity crisis, and a housing crisis all at the same time,” said Mark Wamsely, conservation director at Kestrel Land Trust. “The effectiveness of the projects—both in terms of addressing the various crises as well as their practicality and feasibility—might be better if we focus on all of them at the same time.”

In recent years, land trusts across the country have begun to reevaluate their historically narrow missions, which prioritize traditional land conservation, and to consider how they can better serve all members of their community. As workers at land trusts began to watch local residents and their own colleagues struggle to afford housing, this shift in priorities has increasingly led to more collaboration between conservation land trusts and affordable housing organizations. Kestrel received an anonymous donation specifically earmarked for such collaboration. 

“I think [the donor] was reading the tea leaves in this particular community,” Wamsely said. 

Conservation land trusts acquire and manage land or conservation easements, which are agreements between landowners and trusts, or governments, that put permanent protections on land. Some critics say this takes land needed for housing out of circulation, thus worsening a housing crisis that disproportionately impacts marginalized groups. Collaboration between conservation land trusts and affordable housing groups is sometimes difficult due to past disagreements and cultural differences between the two groups. 

Most of the housing options in Easthampton are large farm houses or old mill housing in poor condition, Mayor Nicole LaChapelle said. A report published in 2021 found that more than half the renters in the area are “cost burdened” and spend more than the recommended 30 percent of their income on housing, but longtime residents were hesitant to support developments that changed the city’s small-town feel. In order to maintain a sustainable local economy, LaChapelle’s administration knew it needed to look for new, innovative opportunities for affordable housing upon taking office, when Kestrel’s novel plan landed on her desk. 

Kestrel’s partner in this new mission is the Community Builders, a national nonprofit that develops and manages affordable housing. It already owns a senior living community adjacent to the parcel earmarked for this collaboration, allowing for intergenerational connection, in addition to the other benefits of the project.

Kestrel’s conservation acreage will protect forests, floodplains, and a tributary of the Connecticut River, while the Community Builders will develop 87 affordable rental units. The low-income housing tax credit will help finance the project, making the units affordable to people making 60 percent of the area’s median income or less. Residents will pay 30 percent of their monthly income for rent.

[dkaufmandevelopment]

Texas Housing Shortage Deepens Despite Record Construction

Despite leading the nation in homebuilding, Texas faces a worsening housing shortage that is inflating housing costs statewide. Let’s dive into the data and explore what this means for real estate developers and investors.

The Numbers: An Escalating Crisis

The Texas housing shortage grew to 320,000 homes in 2022, up from 306,000 in 2021, despite Texas building more homes than any other U.S. state. This gap underscores the fact that even with a surge in new homes, primarily in suburban areas, population growth continues to outstrip supply. The nonprofit housing policy group Up For Growth reports these figures, highlighting the significant demand-supply imbalance.

Drivers of the Shortage

Rapid population growth, particularly in cities like Dallas, Houston, and Austin, has driven up housing prices and rents. Many new Texans are moving from states with higher costs of living, adding to the strain on housing availability and affordability. Historically, Texas has managed housing demand by building detached, single-family homes in the suburbs, keeping housing costs relatively affordable. However, this approach is no longer sufficient to meet the current demand.

Need for Denser Housing Types

Experts, including David Garcia of Up For Growth, suggest that outward expansion can no longer address Texas’ housing needs on its own. In urban centers, limited land availability and strict zoning rules hinder the development of denser, lower-cost housing types like townhomes, duplexes, and smaller apartment complexes. Loosening these restrictions could ease the strain by making it easier to build multi-family homes and other affordable options.

Regional Differences

The housing shortages vary by region across Texas, with some cities making progress in expanding their housing stock:

- Austin-Round Rock: Reduced its housing shortfall by a third, leading to a 16-month decline in rent, though the area remains short by nearly 24,000 homes.

- Houston and Dallas-Fort Worth: Saw their housing shortages grow despite greenlighting more construction projects than before the COVID-19 pandemic.

- El Paso: Has seen a minor easing of its housing shortage, a unique trend within the state.

Zoning Reforms: A Path Forward

Many housing advocates argue that restrictive zoning laws contribute significantly to the Texas housing crisis. While permissive toward single-family homes, Texas cities often restrict land for denser housing types, limiting the construction of affordable housing options. By adjusting these restrictions, cities could increase the housing supply and provide more affordable options for residents. However, zoning reforms face resistance from neighborhood groups and existing homeowners who often oppose denser housing developments.

Upcoming Policy Efforts

The Texas Legislature is expected to address the housing crisis when it reconvenes in Austin next year. A major topic will likely be the extent of state intervention versus local control in setting zoning laws. Some advocates propose state-level mandates to ensure all cities contribute to solving the housing shortage, while others emphasize the need for flexibility at the local level to tailor solutions to community needs.

“While every community should be accountable, the state can set expectations to ensure all cities are helping meet the housing demand,” Garcia said. Balancing state and city powers will be central to any meaningful progress in addressing Texas’ housing issues.

For real estate developers and investors, understanding the dynamics of Texas' housing market is crucial. The state's rapid population growth and significant housing shortages present both challenges and opportunities. Addressing zoning laws and supporting affordable housing initiatives will be key to managing this demand and capitalizing on the burgeoning market.

Join the Conversation: What are your thoughts on the Texas housing shortage and potential solutions? How do you plan to navigate these trends in your investments? Share your insights and engage with our community!

#RealEstateTrends #HousingShortage #InvestmentOpportunities #TexasRealEstate

What are your views on the Texas housing market and its challenges? Let’s discuss below! 💬🏡

[inposterumcumgaudio]

Harold Ridgwell

Dr. Ridgwell is one of two Doctors with a unique texture (the other being Dr. Hughes). Unlike the stock Doctor skin that features a green Tyrolean hat and yellow wellies, his hat and boots are red. Practically, as with Hughes, this is to help the player identify the particular Doctor they are meant to be seeking out in a malpractice of them. Dr. Ridgwell is currently head of Wellington Health and since Dr. Hughes is the only named Doctor working at Haworth Labs, we can perhaps assume that Hughes is head of the Doctor contingent there.

My favorite thing about Dr. Ridgwell is this memo he wrote admonishing the staff and students for complaining about being made to study botany. Aside from the respect to disciplines peripheral to his own, it also indicates that this is a guy who is aware of the broader community and industry. Which, you know, actually a good thing for an organization like Wellington Health.

Also the criticism of Sally's ability to go into business for herself rather than work towards the greater good. Which is something I rarely see talked about actually. Like, in a post-war England - especially an isolationist one that lost said war and is suffering shortages of all kinds - Sally's abrupt departure from Haworth Labs would be considered selfish and unpatriotic. You do see others in the game approach the precipice of calling her out for this (Harry Cavendish's glib statement that "when love fades, you must move on"; Dottie Lloyd-Ramsey saying that she might have told Verloc that Blackberry wasn't based on Coconut) but their English propriety prevents them from outright saying that her selfishness has caused civic and personal suffering.

Although really, what Ridgwell is criticizing isn't that Sally has elected to profit off her skills rather than put her shoulder to the wheel, so much as that she's been allowed to. Back in his day, if you were that valuable to the town, they wouldn't let you play dickdick with them about it.

Anyway, Ridgwell's also aware of the shortages in his own organization and in the town's population. In this other note to the admissions director, he points out that the populace simply does not have many people in it who can qualify for training as Doctors. Aside from the bad Joy taking out possible applicants that he mentions, there's also the fact that Doctors have a height (i.e. strength) requirement on top of the intellectual demand of the job. Wellies are malnourished (which results in shorter, weaker people), but Doctors still have to be able to lift and restrain patients. Especially with so many of them being plague Wastrels these days. It's like that fungus gives them extra strength or something.

But let's be real, you probably asked about Ridgwell because you want the tea on his rivalry with Verloc.

I mean, Ridgwell obviously has opinions about the guy.

That said, the environmental storytelling of Wellington Health is complicated. The motilene-filled room with Ridgwell's draft letter and the chest? I remember the level designer blogging about designing the environmental storytelling in that area, but I have no clue what the story is supposed to be there. Like, Ridgwell doesn't seem like he's planning to bug out otherwise. That the admissions office has been converted into plague wastrel patient cells? I mean, I guess if you can't find students, you don't need the offices, but there's nothing saying they need the space otherwise. Both of those things are just sort of there, you know? They don't go anywhere with it.

I honestly think this part of the story and accordant level was one of the most contested and revised areas, particularly with regard to what was supposed to be happening here. Then, because of the confused environmental storytelling, there was also confused supposition in the fanbase as to what it all meant.

That is, because of this statue in here, people assumed it meant that Verloc used to be head of Wellington Health. after all, Ridgwell donated a fuck-off big statue for his own office, surely an egomaniac like Verloc would have too.

I do not think this is the case.

Usually when I have a question like this, I start digging around in Poedit to get hints as to what the intent might have been. If I can see what was or where they might have been headed, then I can usually assume whether a detail was revised or jettisoned. But there's nothing in there suggesting that Verloc was head of Wellington Health at any point. And I also think that he's too young to have become head of this organization while still having to work in subordinate roles at Haworth Labs. If he'd become head of Wellington Health, going to Haworth Labs would only make sense as a lateral move, especially for a guy with an ego like Verloc. One does not go back down the ladder. A guy who was head of Wellington Health does not write a letter like this.

But... I have a concept.

Verloc has two statues in Wellington Health. One in the hallway, that he apparently donated himself.

And the toppled one in Ridgwell's office.

That the one in Ridgwell's office is knocked over and vandalized and not just removed entirely suggests that Ridgwell's ascension to that role is recent. And as I supposed in that other post about Verloc and Haworth, there are no statues of Haworth at Wellington Health despite inventing Joy, but there are these statues of Verloc. Suggesting that Haworth is not a Wellington Health alumnus, but since Verloc is, they can be proud of and take some credit for his becoming head of the other (competing) medical organization in the town.

What if the previous head of Wellington Health then considered Verloc's acquisition of Haworth Labs to be his own vicarious greatest accomplishment? I mean, this guy probably taught Verloc, maybe thought he was quite promising. Verloc does have that effect on people after all. Maybe this guy even thought he was raising up a protegé.

But Verloc's also fairly good at hiding his disdain for the people of Wellington Wells and he doesn't need a mentor at this point because he's young and invincible and his uncle is still alive. Also, he has no intention of serving the greater good. So regardless of whatever machinations this former director had for him, Verloc gets his degree and defects to Wellington Health's competitor. Which, that's fine, this former director thinks. Brings Haworth Labs into the Wellington Health fold to have it under the watch of an alumnus. Or so he might have hoped.

Ridgwell clearly never liked Verloc, stating particularly that his refusal to share his healthy test subjects with them is not unexpected. I don't think they were students together, but rather that Ridgwell may have been a professor at the time. Might maybe even advised the former director against investing so much energy into Verloc above other more reliably tempered students.

And he was right. Verloc refuses to collaborate or share resources, which hinders progress for both organizations and is very modern and unbecoming behavior typical of the youth these days. Would that they could just be conscripted still.

So shit plays out how it do, former director puts a statue of Verloc up in his office because he's just so damn proud, but isn't it actually sad because that's not even his accomplishment, it's that of a student who probably thinks about him only as a stepping stone to where he actually wanted to be, if at all. Indeed, we don't even know this guy's name because he's ultimately unimportant.

And when Ridgwell succeeds him, he knocks down that monument to misplaced pride and replaces it with one celebrating his own achievement.

What a familiar pose he chose!

And why not? If anyone is going to save Wellington Wells with the next big medical breakthrough, it'll probably be someone who can work well with others and is willing to entertain disciplines beyond his own field of study.

[theculturedmarxist]

Welcome to BIG, a newsletter on the politics of monopoly power. If you’re already signed up, great! If you’d like to sign up and receive issues over email, you can do so here.

Today, as the U.S. is drawn into wars in Israel and Ukraine, as well as the defense of now-peaceful Taiwan, I’m writing about war. Not the policy choices, or whether U.S. military power is a net force for good or ill, but the actual practical machinery behind the American defense base that produces the weaponry necessary to sustain the military.

As stockpiles dwindle, there is now widespread agreement among policymakers that America must rebuild its capacity to arm itself and its allies. But according to a new scorching government report released this week, that’s mostly just talk. The Pentagon doesn’t bother tracking the guts of defense contracting, which is who owns the mighty firms that build weaponry.

But first, I have a personal announcement. I am going on leave this week, and I’ve hired a colleague named Lee Hepner to take over for BIG while I am out. You are in for a treat. Hepner works with me at the American Economic Liberties Project. He’s a lawyer with over a decade's worth of policy and political experience at the state and local level, and when I have a question on the law or procedure, Hepner’s one of my go-to people. He’s drafted important legislation, and has recently been focusing on the airline industry, labor issues, and a lot of the major antitrust litigation I've written about here, including the trials of the Meta-Within merger, the Microsoft-Activision acquisition and the Google monopolization case. You're in good hands.

And now, let’s talk the defense base. Here’s an exceptionally boring chart that involves all the money in the world. Welcome to the Pentagon.

One of the more important side stories to the recent wars in Ukraine and Israel, and competition with China over Taiwan, is that the U.S. defense industrial base, composed of 200k plus corporations, is being forced to actually build weapons again. Defense is big business, and since the end of the Cold War, the government has allowed Wall Street to determine who owns, builds, and profits from defense spending.

The consequences, as with much of our economic machinery, are predictable. Higher prices, worse quality, lower output. Wall Street and private equity firms prioritize cash out first, and that means a once functioning and nimble industrial base now produces more grift than anything else. As Lucas Kunce and I wrote for the American Conservative in 2019, the U.S. simply can’t build or get the equipment it needs. There are at this point a bevy of interesting reports coming out of the Pentagon. The last one I wrote up earlier this year showed that unlike the mid-20th century defense-industrial base, today government cash goes increasingly to stock buybacks rather than actual armaments. And now, with a dramatic upsurge in need for everything from missiles to artillery shells to bullets, we’re starting to see cracks in the vaunted U.S. military.

The signs are unmistakable. In Ukraine, fighters are rationing shells. Taiwan can’t get weapons it ordered years ago. The Pentagon has put together a secret team to scour stockpiles to find high-precision armaments in demand on every battlefield and potential battlefield. But the problem goes beyond national defense. In Lake City, Missouri, the largest small arms ammunition plant in the world has decided all ammo production is going to the military, meaning that there is going to be a domestic shortage for hunters, sportsmen, and maybe even police. This shortage may look like a story of a sudden surge in demand, but it’s actually, as Elle Ekman wrote in the Prospect in 2021, a story of consolidation and de-industrialization.

Surges due to wars aren’t new, and there’s always some time lag between the build-up and the delivery. But today, the lengths of time are weirdly long. For instance, the Army is awarding contracts to RTX and Lockheed Martin to build new Stinger missiles, which makes sense. But the process will take.. five years. Why? What is new is Wall Street’s role in weaponry. We used to have slack, and productive capacity, but then came private equity and mergers. And now we don’t. The government can’t actually solicit bids from multiple players for most major weapons systems, because there’s just one or two possible bidders. So that means there’s little incentive for firms to expand output, even if there’s more spending. Why not just raise price?

But don’t take my word for it, take that of the Pentagon. In 2022, the DOD reported that “that consolidation of the industrial base reduces competition for DOD contracts and leads DOD to rely on a more limited number of suppliers. This lack of competition may in turn increase the risk of supply chain gaps, price increases, reduced innovation, and other adverse effects.” And that’s why, more than a year into the Ukraine conflict, the ramp-up is still not where it needs to be.

This week, the Government Accountability Office (GAO), which is a Congressional office charged with investigating problems in government and business, explained why. The GAO came out with a report on how the Pentagon is doing essentially zero oversight of Wall Street’s acquisitions of defense contractors. The title is as boring as you’d expect, designed to have few people pay attention, but offering a red-alert to procurement officials.

The report is simply jaw-dropping. Despite all the chatter about consolidation at high levels within the Pentagon, and in Congress, the bureaucracy has made essentially no progress whatsoever. For instance, we have a trillion dollar defense budget, but there are just two people in the Department of Defense who look at mergers in the defense base. You couldn’t staff the morning shift of a small coffee shop with that, and yet two people are supposed to look at the estimated four hundred mergers plus going on every year among defense contractors and subcontractors.

Four hundred mergers every year is a lot, but of course, that’s just an estimate. Why don’t we know how many acquisitions happen in the defense base? As it turns out, it’s an estimate because the Pentagon isn’t tracking defense mergers anymore. To put it in boring GAO-speak, Pentagon“officials could not say with certainty how many defense-related M&A now occur annually because they no longer track or maintain data on all M&A in the defense industrial base.” So the DOD is almost totally blind to the corporate owners of contractors and subcontractors, which might be one reason that, say, Chinese alloys are being discovered in sensitive weapons systems like the state of the art F-35.

It gets worse. There’s no policy or guidance on mergers, and DOD doesn’t even require contractors or subcontractors to tell them that there is new ownership when an acquisition occurs. In fact, the Pentagon relies on public news to learn of mergers. They often do not know that the mergers are going on, or that the Federal Trade Commission is reviewing them. When big mergers happen, even if the Pentagon is concerned, no one tracks what happens after it closes. They do no analysis of industry sectors, as their “M&A office is not collecting robust data or conducting recurring trend analyses that could help them identify M&A in risky areas of consolidation among defense suppliers.”

The Pentagon’s head-in-the-sand approach is why Lockheed now has a chokehold on nuclear missile modernization, since it bought the key supplier of rocket engines and denies those engines to rivals bidding for the contract to upgrade what is known as the nuclear triad.

So how does the U.S. government manage defense base mergers? Well, the Pentagon defers to the antitrust agencies to look solely at competition. “While DOD policy directs Industrial Base Policy and DOD stakeholders to assess other types of risks, such as national security and innovation risks,” wrote the GAO, “they have not routinely done so.” Basically, dealing with their own defense base is someone else’s job.

What I found most useful about the GAO report is the Pentagon’s response, a classic bureaucratic hand wave. The DOD agreed with all the conclusions of the GAO. It should track mergers and what happens afterwards, it should have more personnel doing so, it should consider national security aspects of corporate combinations, and it should have clear policy on mergers. But it doesn’t. The DOD says it will have a better strategy to deal with mergers… by 2024. Basically, you’re right, but it’s not our problem.

Every day, it seems like political leaders and consultants are saying it’s time to really get that arsenal of democracy going, and to re-industrialize for real. It’s quite possible to get a lot done. The FTC and DOJ now have significant amounts of national security-related information on mergers due to a Congressional change in pre-merger notification laws in 2022, so the DOD could easily do a better job of tracking what’s happening in the defense base.

More to the point, the Pentagon is very powerful. The Deputy Secretary of Defense, Kathleen Hicks could simply start smashing heads on competition and begin telling contractors that if they don’t shape up, she will start an internal war against them. Or the head of the Armed Services Committees could threaten the cushy cash flow that leads to record stock buybacks among contractors, if the ramp-up doesn’t start. Or they could grant antitrust authority for the DOD straight-up, which would rely on a national security standard that allows widespread corporate restructuring without the long slog of a court case. There are many paths.

But if you actually look at the guts of the bureaucracy, nothing is happening, because doing something about our industrial base means thwarting Wall Street, and that’s generally not something that’s considered on the table among normie policymakers. Giant bureaucracies are hard to change, but they are not immovable. One of the ways that you know a previously non-functional bureaucracy is on the right track is, ironically, if there is bitter infighting and anger among staff, who are being tasked to do things differently. But as the GAO showed this week, that’s just not happening in the Pentagon, or at least, not happening nearly fast enough.

And that’s why America is increasingly out of ammunition.

[teaveetamer]

You people are funny. "If Engage doesn't sell as much as Houses it's not necessarily because the writing and advertising were bad, it's because Hopes scared people away!"

Ok I'm gonna let myself be a little bit of a bitch tonight, as a treat.

Bro if you hate my takes so much then why bother sending me an ask? Do yourself, and me, a favor and just block me or move on. And if you're gonna send me little whiny bitch ass anons about my posts the least you could do is read them. No one said Hopes was bad therefore no one bought Engage. We said retailers overestimated demand and overstocked Hopes, and that might have led to them understocking Engage. Which, and I don't know if you know this, is not a commentary on whether or not any of the games involved were actually good or not. If you assigned value or meaning to that statement beyond "did they print enough copies for people to purchase" then I don't know what to say to you, other than "touch grass" because I'm sick of 3H stannies misinterpreting everything that even minorly nudges their feefees in the wrong direction just so they can start a fight over absolutely nothing.

The fact that Hopes was overstocked and Engage was understocked is not up for debate. Amazon doesn't run 50% off sales of games that just released if they're moving their stock, and you don't have tons of reports of stock shortages if you stocked enough copies to meet demand.

And yes, believe it or not, being consistently understocked is going to have a marked difference on your sales of physical copies, which is what I'm looking at. Is the PS5 an underselling console just because it sold fewer units than the PS4 in their respective launch years? No, because there were obvious external factors that would have prevented the PS5 from selling more. Which is why, again if you'd actually bothered to read the post, you would see that I noted that this is more of an art than a science. Because, you know, there are numerous external factors which could be impacting things and we need to wait until we have official sales numbers from Nintendo before making definitive calls on anything.

I also offered several explanations for Engage being understocked that have nothing to do with Hopes (such as parts shortages or competing for factory time with Pokemon, Zelda, or other big Nintendo franchises that would take priority over FE) but sure, don't mention those, clearly I'm just in denial and out to get the 3H fans.

I'm sorry you're upset that enough people didn't buy your fucking anime Three Kingdoms waifu game for you to get the DLC that will actually make its cobbled together mess of a story make sense, but that's not really my problem.

Can't wait for you to send this in your discord or wherever and whine about how Vee was just such a big meanie to you. I'm happy to talk about basically anything, but I'm not going to waste my time with you if you're going to send me whiny ass strawman bullshit like this.

[mariacallous]

For now, Alex Lagetko is holding on to his Tesla stocks. The founder of hedge fund VSO Capital Management in New York, Lagetko says his stake in the company was worth $46 million in November 2021, when shares in the electric carmaker peaked at $415. 

Since then, they have plunged 72 percent, as investors worry about waning demand, falling production and price cuts in China, labor shortages in Europe, and, of course, the long-term impact of CEO Elon Musk’s $44 billion acquisition of Twitter. After announcing his plans to buy the platform in April, Musk financed his acquisition with $13 billion in loans and $33 billion in cash, roughly $23 billion of which was raised by selling shares in Tesla. 

“Many investors, particularly retail, who invested disproportionately large sums of their wealth largely on the basis of trust in Musk over many years were very quickly burned in the months following the acquisition,” Lagetko says, “particularly in December as he sold more stock, presumably to fund losses at Twitter.”

Lagetko is worried that the leveraged buyout of Twitter has left Tesla exposed, as interest payments on the debt Musk took on to fund the takeover come due at the same time as the social media company’s revenues have slumped.

But Tesla stock was already falling in April 2022, when Musk launched his bid for Twitter, and analysts say that the carmaker’s challenges run deeper than its exposure to the struggling social media platform. Tesla and its CEO have alienated its core customers while its limited designs and high prices make it vulnerable to competition from legacy automakers, who have rushed into the EV market with options that Musk’s company will struggle to match.

Prior to 2020, Tesla was essentially “playing against a B team in a soccer match,” says Matthias Schmidt, an independent analyst in Berlin who tracks electric car sales in Europe. But that changed in 2020, as “the opposition started rolling out some of their A squad players.”

In 2023, Tesla is due to release its long-awaited Cybertruck, a blocky, angular SUV first announced in 2019. It is the first new launch of a consumer vehicle by the company since 2020. A promised two-seater sports car is still years away, and the Models S, X, Y, and 3, once seen as space-age dynamos, are now “long in the tooth,” says Mark Barrott, an automotive analyst at consultancy Plante Moran. Most auto companies refresh their looks every three to five years—Tesla’s Model S is now more than 10 years old.

By contrast, this year Ford plans to boost production of both its F-150 Lighting EV pick-up, already sold out for 2023, and its Mustang Mach-E SUV. Offerings from Hyundai IONIQ 5 and Kia EV6 could threaten Tesla’s Model Y and Model 3 in the $45,000 to $65,000 range. General Motors plans to speed up production and cut costs for a range of EV models, including the Chevy Blazer EV, the Chevy Equinox, the Cadillac Lyric, and the GMC Sierra EV. 

While Tesla’s designs may be eye-catching, their high prices mean that they’re now often competing with luxury brands. 

“There is this kind of nice Bauhaus simplicity to Tesla’s design, but it’s not luxurious,” says David Welch, author of Charging Ahead: GM, Mary Barra, and the Reinvention of an American Icon. “And for people to pay $70,000 to $100,000 for a car, if you’re competing suddenly with an electric Mercedes or BMW, or a Cadillac that finally actually feels like something that should bear the Cadillac name, you’re going to give people something to think about.”

While few manufacturers can compete with Tesla on performance and software (the Tesla Model S goes to 60 mph in 1.99 seconds, reaches a 200-mph top speed, and boasts automatic lane changing and a 17-inch touchscreen for console-grade gaming), many have reached or are approaching a range of 300 miles (480 km), which is the most important consideration for many EV buyers, says Craig Lawrence, a partner and cofounder at the investment group Energy Transition Ventures.

One of Tesla’s main competitive advantages has been its supercharging network. With more than 40,000 proprietary DC fast chargers located on major thoroughfares near shopping centers, coffee shops, and gas stations, their global infrastructure is the largest in the world. Chargers are integrated with the cars’ Autobidder optimization & dispatch software, and, most importantly, they work quickly and reliably, giving a car up to 322 miles of range in 15 minutes. The network contributes to about 12 percent of Tesla sales globally.

“The single biggest hurdle for most people asking ‘Do I go EV or not,’ is how do I refuel it and where,” says Loren McDonald, CEO and lead analyst for the consultancy EVAdoption. “Tesla figured that out early on and made it half of the value proposition.”

But new requirements for funding under public charging infrastructure programs in the US may erode Tesla’s proprietary charging advantage. The US National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Program will allocate $7.5 billion to fund the development of some 500,000 electric vehicle chargers, but to access funds to build new stations, Tesla will have to open up its network to competitors by including four CCC chargers.

“Unless Tesla opens up their network to different charging standards, they will not get any of that volume,” Barrott says. “And Tesla doesn’t like that.”

In a few years, the US public charging infrastructure may start to look more like Europe’s, where in many countries the Tesla Model 3 uses standard plugs, and Tesla has opened their Supercharging stations to non-Tesla vehicles. 

Tesla does maintain a software edge over competitors, which have looked to third-party technology like Apple’s CarPlay to fill the gap, says Alex Pischalnikov, an auto analyst and principal at the consulting firm Arthur D. Little. With over-the-air updates, Tesla can send new lines of code over cellular networks to resolve mechanical problems and safety features, update console entertainment options, and surprise drivers with new features, such as heated rear seats and the recently released full self-driving beta, available for $15,000. These software updates are also a cash machine for Tesla. But full self-driving features aren’t quite as promised, since drivers still have to remain in effective control of the vehicle, limiting the value of the system.

A Plante Moran analysis shared with WIRED shows Tesla’s share of the North American EV market declining from 70 percent in 2022 to just 31 percent by 2025, as total EV production grows from 777,000 to 2.87 million units.

In Europe, Tesla’s decline is already underway. Schmidt says data from the first 11 months of 2022 shows sales by volume of Volkswagen’s modular electric drive matrix (MEB) vehicles outpaced Tesla’s Model Y and Model 3 by more than 20 percent. His projections show Tesla’s product lines finishing the year with 15 percent of the western European electric vehicle market, down from 33 percent in 2019.

The European Union has proposed legislation to reduce carbon emissions from new cars and vans by 100 percent by 2035, which is likely to bring more competition from European carmakers into the market. 

There is also a growing sense that Musk’s behavior since taking over Twitter has made a challenging situation for Tesla even worse.

Over the past year, Musk has used Twitter to call for the prosecution of former director of the US National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases Anthony Fauci (“My pronouns are Prosecute/Fauci”), take swings at US senator from Vermont Bernie Sanders over government spending and inflation, and placed himself at the center of the free speech debate. He’s lashed out at critics, challenging, among other things, the size of their testicles. 

A November analysis of the top 100 global brands by the New York–based consultancy Interbrand estimated Tesla’s brand value in 2022 at $48 billion, up 32 percent from 2021 but well short of its 183 percent growth between 2020 and 2021. The report, based on qualitative data from 1,000 industry consultants and sentiment analysis of published sources, showed brand strength declining, particularly in “trust, distinctiveness and an understanding of the needs of their customers.”

“I think [Musk’s] core is rapidly moving away from him, and people are just starting to say, ‘I don’t like the smell of Tesla; I don’t want to be associated with that,’” says Daniel Binns, global chief growth officer at Interbrand.

Among them are once-loyal customers. Alan Saldich, a semi-retired tech CMO who lives in Idaho, put a deposit down on a Model S in 2011, before the cars were even on the road, after seeing a bodiless chassis in a Menlo Park showroom. His car, delivered in 2012, was number 2799, one of the first 3,000 made.

He benefited from the company’s good, if idiosyncratic, customer service. When, on Christmas morning 2012, the car wouldn’t start, he emailed Musk directly seeking a remedy. Musk responded just 24 minutes later: “...Will see if we can diagnose and fix remotely. Sorry about this. Hope you otherwise have a good Christmas.”

On New Year’s Day, Joost de Vries, then vice president of worldwide service at Tesla, and an assistant showed up at Saldich’s house with a trailer, loaded the car onto a flatbed, and hauled it to Tesla’s plant in Fremont, California, to be repaired. Saldich and his family later even got a tour of the factory. But since then, he’s cooled on the company. In 2019, he sold his Model S, and now drives a Mini Electric. He’s irritated in particular, he says, by Musk’s verbal attacks on government programs and regulation, particularly as Tesla has benefited from states and federal EV tax credits.

“Personally, I probably wouldn’t buy another Tesla,” he says. “A, because there’s so many alternatives and B, I just don’t like [Musk] anymore.”

[proexcellencybanglore]

What Are the Main Objectives of the SAP PP Online Course?

The SAP Production Planning module is a very important part of the manufacturing industry. It integrates various business functions to ensure a smooth production process. The SAP PP Online Courses are designed to give professionals the necessary knowledge and skills to optimize the production planning and control in organizations. This is a complete training program that has a number of objectives. These include building technical competence, understanding integration capabilities, and enhancing problem-solving skills in real-world scenarios. Below, we dive into the major objectives of the SAP PP Online Course and how it makes learners proficient in managing production processes effectively.

1. Understanding the Fundamentals of SAP PP

The primary aim of an SAP PP Online Course is to equip learners with a basic understanding of the SAP PP module. This includes:

Introduction to SAP ERP: Understanding the wider universe of SAP and the place of SAP PP in it.

Core Concepts: Learning key concepts related to production planning, including MRP, capacity planning, and production scheduling.

Terminology and Framework: Terms, processes, and workflows knowledge are achieved so that one could apply SAP PP suitably.

The learner is reassured of surfing through the SAP PP interface smoothly and finding out what goes in their head to its functionalities.

2. Master Data Management

Master data is the back-bone for any production planning. The course focuses on master data creation, management, and maintenance. The master data comprises:

Material Master: Learn what material definitions, classification, and data setup mean

Bills of Materials (BOM): BOM creation and maintenance, indicating what to make

Work Centers: Setup of work centers including capacity, resources, and cost

Routings: Definition of routings for setup of production sequence and process

Mastering master data will enable the learners to get right and proper information during production planning.

3. MRP Knowledge

The most basic function of SAP PP is MRP, as it aids in planning and material management for the organization. Some of the objectives for this course include:

Running of MRP Runs: To understand how to run MRP runs for the purpose of calculating material requirements.

MRP Types and Strategies: To understand various planning strategies, such as make-to-stock and make-to-order.

Exception Handling: To understand how exceptions can be managed, including shortages in materials or excess inventories.

Demand Forecasting: Use demand management tools to forecast material requirements.

MRP knowledge helps the students work on the proper inventory levels, waste minimization, and ensure that all materials become available at the right time.

4. Learn Production Planning and Scheduling

This course should also be equipped to make the learner plan and schedule production effectively. This involves;

Production order generation: How to generate production orders and manage them.

Methods of planning: Various methods of long-range and short-range planning.

Sequencing and Scheduling: Develop ability to sequence production activities and utilize resources to meet target dates.

Resource Optimization: Using techniques to maximize use of machines, labor, and materials.

Effective planning and scheduling reduces idle time in the shop and maximizes productivity.

5. Capacity Planning

Capacity planning helps avoid overutilization of facilities, which would create overutilization of resources. The following are some objectives in a course on this subject area:

Capacity Analysis: Learn the capability of work centers and production lines.

Load Leveling: Prevent bottlenecks by balancing workload across resources

Finite and Infinite Planning: Learn the difference between finite capacity planning and infinite capacity planning.

Scenario Analysis: Perform what-if analyses to anticipate a variety of production scenarios

These skills enable learners to align schedules with available resources and their capacities.

6. Effective Shop Floor Control

Shop floor control is the real-time monitoring and controlling of production activities. The course will teach the participants to:

Track Production Progress: Monitor the status of production orders and operations.

Manage Deviations: Handle unexpected issues, such as machine breakdowns or delays.

Post Production Activities: Record actual production data, including quantities and time taken.

Analyze Performance: Use reports and analytics to evaluate production efficiency and identify areas for improvement.

Shop floor control competence ensures smooth production plans and problems can be easily resolved.  

7. Integration with Other Modules 

The SAP PP integrates pretty well with other SAP modules. It provides an integrated system that supports end-to-end business processes. The objectives learned would be: 

Integrate with SAP MM :  Material management  - explains on interaction of SAP PP to procuring and inventory activities.

Integration with SAP SD (Sales and Distribution): Know how production planning will happen with sales orders and consumer demand.

Integration with SAP QM (Quality Management): Know how quality checks will come into the production process.

Integration with SAP FI/CO (Financial Accounting and Controlling): Know your cost management and financial reporting skills.

This integration knowledge will help students put the production process into synchronization with the organizational goals.

8. Developing Analytical and Problem-Solving Competencies

This online SAP PP course will base the learning on analytical thinking as the learners will be able to:

Analyze Production Data: Assess the performance of production and the places that may have inefficiency.

Solve Real-Life Problems: Identify areas like low capacity, insufficient materials, or time delays.

Optimize Workflow: Provide solutions that make use of resources more efficient hence a decrease in costs.

The above is very essential to those employees whose role it is to enhance manufacturing.

9. Advanced Topics

In advance learning and study sessions, the course has other features related to following matters with extra elaborations about them:

Repetitive manufacturing: It is high volume continuous production.

Kanban production: Learning and understanding pull-based methods related to inventory and workflow.

Batch Management: Production of batches on traceability and quality measures. There are variant configurations which easily facilitate complex products and its variations that can be produced with varieties.

These advanced skills offer competency for specific jobs and special industry-related problems.

10. Certification Preparation for SAP

The professionals find the achievement of SAP certification very important. The course objectives are:

Preparation for Exams: Syllabus coverage and tips for SAP PP certification exams.

Practice Tests: The learners are given mock exams to test their preparedness.

Study Materials: All-inclusive resources to prepare for the exam.

Certification Guidance: Learners are guided through the process of registering and successfully completing the certification process.

Certification confirms the SAP PP skills of a person and opens more opportunities for career progression.

11. Career Progression

The final purpose of the SAP PP Online Certification is to ensure that the learner is able to move forward in their career. Upon completion of the course, learners can:

Apply for New Jobs: SAP PP Consultant, Production Planner, or Manufacturing Engineer.

Command Competitive Wages: With SAP PP skills to negotiate more.

Diversified Industries Experience- Automobile, aerospace, pharma, and consumer goods industries.

Help the success of the organization. Make use of SAP PP know-how for operational efficiency and business growth.

12. Support Continuous Learning

The e-learning SAP PP course promotes learning culture by:

Creating Curiosity: Encouraging students to search for new functionalities in SAP and the ones available in the system.

Facilitating Access: Offering learners a lifetime of access to all materials and recordings of the online SAP PP course.

Building a Professional Network: Connecting learners with peers, instructors, and industry experts.

This lifelong learning focus ensures that professionals remain relevant within a rapidly changing technological environment.

Why Proexcellency?

ProExcellency is a quality, expert, and excellence commitment in professional training. ProExcellency is one of the best providers within the online training solution service industry; it offers students diversified needs based on courses from different industry sectors. Being onboarded on the team of experienced instructors carrying a line of industry knowledge and hands-on insights, ProExcellency makes sure that learners get theoretical knowledge as well as hands-on abilities that can be applied directly in their careers. Using flexible learning options, it allows professionals to balance the commitments they have in regard to their work, life, and study. In addition, the trainings from ProExcellency prepare one for global certifications, thereby making one more employable with new opportunities. As the learners base their knowledge with real applications through case studies and interactive sessions, the educational process of the individual is holistically developed in contrast to only textbooks. Whether you need to upskill, reskill, or get ahead in your career, ProExcellency is that quality training partner that will take you exactly where you want to go in your profession.

Conclusion

The SAP PP Online Course is an intense program of study, which poses specific goals to ensure you obtain technical knowledge, develop practical skills, and have a strategic approach. Mastering SAP PP functions for the learner will optimize production processes, solve complex problems, and give value to the success of his organization. Whether you are an initial user seeking to start learning about SAP or an experienced professional who needs upskilling, this online course in SAP PP teaches you how to do production planning and control perfectly.

Q&A

1. What is SAP PP, and why is it important?

Answer:

SAP Production Planning is one of the core modules in the SAP ERP system. It manages and streamlines the manufacturing process of an organization. It is integrated with other SAP modules, such as Materials Management (MM), Sales and Distribution (SD), and Quality Management (QM), to ensure smooth coordination among departments.

SAP PP is significant in that it enables businesses to improve the production schedule, reduce wastage, manage resources well, and meet customer demands within an efficient time. It supports various manufacturing processes that are discrete, repetitive, and process industries and hence adaptable to varying needs of organizations. This can be done with the help of the application of tools like MRP, capacity planning, and shop floor control in order to ensure consistency in production. It is thus responsive to the changes within the market.

2. What are some of the topics of an SAP PP Online Training course?

Answer:

Some of the important topics of an SAP PP Online Training course are:

SAP PP Online Training introduction: Basic concepts of Production planning, navigation, and role of SAP PP within the SAP ERP system

Master Data Management: Master data configuration and maintenance with material master, bills of materials (BOM), work centers, and routings.

Material Requirements Planning (MRP): Knowing various planning scenarios, running MRP jobs, and managing exceptions from material shortages.

Production scheduling: Producing production orders; scheduling and sequencing tasks to optimize resource usage.

Capacity planning : Measuring resource availability, balancing load, and doing "what-if" analyses to identify potential bottlenecks.

Shop Floor Control: Capturing shop floor operations live; monitoring deviations and updating a record of production.

Integration with Other Modules: Understanding how SAP PP works with SAP MM, SD, QM, and FI/CO to ensure smooth operations.

Advanced Topics: Studying repetitive manufacturing, Kanban production, and batch management for specific production scenarios.

These topics will arm the participants with theoretical knowledge and practical experience, making them ready for real-life challenges in production planning.

3. What are the career prospects after taking SAP PP Online Training?

Answer:

By implementing SAP PP Online Training, diverse chances may arise in managing a staff's career as the aim of any manufacturing and relevant businesses. Some of the probable positions for an individual after doing such training are given below.

SAP PP Consultant

SAP PP Consultant is that who assists and offers organizational expertise to any organization for the adoption of SAP PP solutions and their implementation.

A production planner creates or maintains schedules and delivers the goods in time. A functional analyst supports the business process integrating SAP PP with other modules in the system.

Manufacturing Engineer: Improving manufacturing processes with the help of SAP PP tools and techniques.

SAP PP skills are in demand in all industries, including automotive, pharmaceuticals, consumer goods, and aerospace. The compensation is also very competitive with very good career growth opportunities. Additionally, the SAP PP certification further enhances credibility and employability, so candidates distinguish themselves in a competitive job market.

[siren-wireless]

Top 5 Reasons Why Wholesale Cell Phone Parts Are a Game-Changer for Mobile Repair Shops

In the mobile repair industry, offering quality service while keeping costs down is essential for success. One of the most effective ways to achieve both is by purchasing wholesale cell phone parts. By sourcing parts in bulk from trusted suppliers like Siren Wireless, repair shops can benefit from significant savings and operational efficiencies. Here are the top five reasons why buying wholesale cell phone parts is a game-changer for your business.

1. Significant Cost Savings

Purchasing cell phone replacement parts in bulk leads to substantial cost savings. Whether you're repairing Apple devices and need Wholesale iPhone Parts, Samsung phones, or other models, buying in large quantities significantly reduces the cost per part. This enables repair shops to offer competitive prices to customers while still maintaining healthy profit margins. With wholesale pricing, even high-demand parts like screens, batteries, and chargers become more affordable, which is crucial for businesses that perform numerous repairs daily.

2. Streamlined Operations and Inventory Management

When you buy mobile phone parts wholesale, you ensure a steady supply of the most commonly needed parts. Whether you’re stocking up on Apple replacement parts or other essential mobile components, buying in bulk reduces the need for constant reordering and minimizes downtime. This streamlined inventory management means you can handle more repairs, reduce lead times, and keep your customers happy. Having wholesale cell phone parts on hand also allows you to be prepared for unexpected repairs without delays.

3. Increased Profit Margins

Wholesale purchases are key to boosting profit margins. Since wholesale phone parts come at a lower cost per unit, repair shops can charge a reasonable price for repairs while still enjoying a good markup on parts and labor. By sourcing high-quality Apple replacement parts and Samsung replacement parts at wholesale rates, shops can improve their bottom line without sacrificing quality. This pricing advantage helps repair businesses remain competitive and grow their profits.

4. Reliable, High-Quality Parts

The quality of cell phone parts can make or break a repair shop’s reputation. When you choose to purchase from trusted suppliers like Siren Wireless, you can be sure that you're getting durable, reliable parts for repairs. Whether you're dealing with Apple replacement parts or Samsung replacement parts, working with a reputable supplier ensures your customers receive high-quality repairs that last. Using quality parts minimizes warranty issues, which can save your shop time and money in the long run.

5. Scalability for Growing Businesses

As your mobile repair shop grows, the demand for mobile spare parts increases. Purchasing wholesale cell phone parts allows you to scale your operations without worrying about inventory shortages. Whether you’re expanding your repair services to include more Apple replacement parts or other phone models, buying in bulk ensures you always have the parts you need. This reliability gives your business the flexibility to handle more customers and provide faster turnaround times.

Conclusion

Purchasing wholesale cell phone parts from trusted suppliers like Siren Wireless can significantly benefit your mobile repair business. From cost savings and better profit margins to streamlined operations and reliable parts, buying in bulk helps your business run more efficiently. Ready to take your repair shop to the next level? Visit Siren Wireless for high-quality parts at wholesale prices today.

[rentmysoftware]

Custom ERP Software: The Backbone of Efficient Logistics and Supply Chains

In the ever-evolving world of logistics and supply chain management, efficiency and adaptability are paramount. Companies face increasing pressure to streamline operations, meet customer demands, and navigate global supply chains. Custom ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning) software emerges as a powerful solution, offering tailored capabilities to address industry-specific challenges. 

Here's how custom ERP systems drive efficiency in logistics and supply chains, along with the advantages they bring to businesses.

Understanding the Role of Custom ERP in Logistics

Custom ERP software integrates core business processes, providing real-time data and insights across departments like procurement, inventory, shipping, and finance. Unlike generic ERP solutions, custom ERP systems are designed to meet the specific needs of an organization. For logistics and supply chain operations, this means:

Optimizing Workflow: Automating routine tasks like order processing and inventory tracking.

Enhancing Visibility: Offering real-time tracking of goods and materials across the supply chain.

Improving Communication: Seamlessly connecting vendors, suppliers, and customers for smoother collaboration.

By aligning these functions, custom ERP ensures that businesses maintain control over their logistics processes while adapting to dynamic market conditions.

How Does Custom ERP Improve Supply Chain Efficiency?

1. Real-Time Inventory Management

A significant challenge in supply chains is managing inventory effectively. Custom ERP systems provide real-time data on stock levels, reorder points, and lead times. This helps businesses avoid overstocking or understocking issues, reducing costs and improving order fulfillment rates.

2. Streamlined Transportation Management

Custom ERP software can integrate with GPS and tracking systems to optimize route planning and shipment tracking. This ensures timely deliveries and reduces transportation costs by identifying the most efficient routes.

3. Enhanced Decision-Making with Predictive Analytics

With integrated analytics, custom ERP systems provide forecasts based on historical data and market trends. This empowers businesses to make informed decisions, mitigate risks, and plan for demand fluctuations more effectively.

Why Choose Custom ERP Over Off-the-Shelf Solutions?

Industry-Specific FeaturesCustom ERP systems are tailored to the unique requirements of a company, such as warehouse management for a logistics firm or cold-chain monitoring for perishable goods.

ScalabilityAs a business grows, its operational needs evolve. Custom ERP solutions can be expanded and modified to meet changing demands without requiring a complete system overhaul.

Cost Efficiency in the Long RunWhile the upfront cost of custom ERP may be higher, it eliminates unnecessary features and adds functionalities that improve ROI over time.

What Challenges Can Custom ERP Address in Global Supply Chains?

Dealing with Complex Supplier NetworksCustom ERP can centralize supplier data, enabling better communication and collaboration.

Compliance with International RegulationsCustom ERP solutions can be programmed to track and ensure compliance with global trade laws, reducing the risk of penalties.

Managing Unexpected DisruptionsWith real-time monitoring and analytics, custom ERP helps businesses respond quickly to supply chain disruptions like delays or shortages.

Is Custom ERP Software Right for Your Logistics Operations?

Investing in custom ERP software requires careful consideration. Businesses should assess:

Their unique operational needs.

The complexity of their supply chains.

Their long-term growth goals.

A custom ERP solution is particularly beneficial for companies dealing with complex logistics networks or specialized supply chain requirements.

Conclusion

Custom ERP software is transforming logistics and supply chain management by enhancing efficiency, reducing costs, and enabling smarter decision-making. Its tailored design ensures that businesses can adapt effectively to the challenges posed by modern supply chains while maintaining a competitive advantage. Organizations looking to streamline their operations increasingly recognize custom ERP as a foundational tool for sustainable success in logistics and supply chain management. Companies like BOSS, located at 2313 Brookhollow Plaza Drive, Arlington, TX 76006, United States, provide tailored ERP solutions that address the unique needs of diverse industries. Businesses can reach BOSS at 817-210-4042 to explore how their expertise in ERP systems can optimize operations and drive growth.

[openteq---123]

Enhancing Productivity with NetSuite Manufacturing ERP & Management Software

To stay ahead in the highly competitive manufacturing environment of today, one must embrace technology that streamlines processes, lowers inefficiencies, and boosts output. As manufacturing processes become more intricate, companies need reliable systems that can easily connect inventory control, production lines, and customer orders. Here's where NetSuite Manufacturing ERP & Management Software enters the picture, transforming the way manufacturers work. OpenTeQ, a pioneer in NetSuite deployment, provides customized solutions to support manufacturers in this digital age. 

The Role of NetSuite in Modern Manufacturing 

Manufacturers deal with a variety of issues, such as meeting client expectations, optimizing supply chains, and handling inventory shortages. A comprehensive framework for addressing these issues is provided by NetSuite for manufacturing, which automates manual procedures, optimizes production schedules, and provides real-time analytics.  

Production planning, inventory monitoring, and financial management are just a few of the essential features that NetSuite Manufacturing ERP & Management Software integrates into a single, cohesive system to satisfy the particular requirements of manufacturing companies. These features allow producers to concentrate on what really counts: producing high-quality goods on schedule while optimizing productivity. 

Key Features of NetSuite Solutions for Manufacturing 

Complete Visibility  

Businesses can see every aspect of their operations using NetSuite Solutions for Manufacturing. Manufacturers are able to monitor each step of production in real time, from raw materials to final products. This openness guarantees more efficient departmental workflows, enhances decision-making, and lessens bottlenecks.  

Advanced Scheduling for Production  

Effectively managing production schedules is essential in the manufacturing industry. Businesses using NetSuite for manufacturing can schedule production runs according to delivery schedules, resource availability, and demand projections. This guarantees that customer orders are fulfilled quickly and minimizes downtime. 

Inventory Management  

Sustaining ideal stock levels is a never-ending task. Manufacturers may prevent stockouts and overstocking by using the smart inventory management solutions offered by NetSuite Manufacturing ERP & Management Software. Businesses can cut waste and carrying costs by automating inventory tracking and restocking.  

Smooth Integration  

The seamless integration of NetSuite Solutions for Manufacturing with other systems, including supply chain management and CRM tools, is one of its most notable characteristics. By removing data silos and guaranteeing seamless team communication, this improves operational efficiency.  

The foundation of contemporary production is real-time analytics and reporting data. Businesses may use configurable dashboards and real-time analytics to track key performance indicators (KPIs) with Manufacturing with NetSuite. This enables producers to spot patterns, deal with problems early, 

The OpenTeQ Advantage 

OpenTeQ, a reputable NetSuite service provider, focuses on putting customized NetSuite Manufacturing ERP & Management Software solutions into place. OpenTeQ makes sure manufacturers get the most out of their NetSuite investment, whether that means improving supply chain operations or optimizing production workflows.  

OpenTeQ is aware that every manufacturing company is unique. By offering customized NetSuite Solutions for Manufacturing, the company addresses the unique challenges of each client, helping them scale operations, reduce costs, and improve overall productivity.  

Additionally OpenTeQ’s expert team provides ongoing support to ensure businesses stay ahead of evolving market demands. From system upgrades to employee training, OpenTeQ is a reliable partner every step of the way. 

Conclusion 

In the fast-paced manufacturing industry, agility and efficiency are paramount. Manufacturing with NetSuite empowers businesses to streamline operations, enhance productivity, and stay competitive in an ever-changing market. With its advanced features and seamless integration, NetSuite Manufacturing ERP & Management Software is the ideal solution for manufacturers looking to drive growth and innovation. 

Partnering with OpenTeQ ensures that your manufacturing business leverages the full potential of NetSuite to achieve operational excellence. Invest in the future of your business today with NetSuite Solutions for Manufacturing and experience the transformation firsthand. 

Reach out to OpenTeQ for expert NetSuite services tailored to your business needs. info@openteqgroup.com, +1-469 623 5106. 

[staarek]

Buy Cutting Wheels in Bulk from India’s Leading Manufacturer for Maximum Savings

When it comes to industrial tools, cutting wheels are essential for a wide range of applications, including metalworking, construction, and manufacturing. For businesses that depend on these tools, choosing a reliable supplier is critical to maintaining efficiency and minimizing costs. At Staarek Abrasive, we specialize in manufacturing high-quality cutting wheels tailored to meet diverse industrial needs. Recognized as a premier Cutting Wheel Manufacturer in India, we take pride in offering durable, cost-effective solutions.

Purchasing cutting wheels in bulk not only guarantees consistent supply but also offers substantial savings. At Staarek Abrasive, we understand the demands of businesses and strive to provide cutting wheels that excel in performance, longevity, and affordability. By choosing us as your bulk supplier, you gain access to premium products at competitive prices, backed by expert support and timely delivery.

The Benefits of Buying Cutting Wheels in Bulk

For industries with high-volume operations, bulk purchasing is an effective way to streamline operations and save money. At Staarek Abrasive, we offer significant benefits for bulk buyers. One major advantage is cost savings. Bulk orders allow you to leverage volume discounts, reducing the per-unit cost and helping your business allocate resources more effectively. Additionally, having a consistent supply of cutting wheels ensures uninterrupted operations, minimizing downtime caused by stock shortages.

Bulk purchasing also provides the opportunity to customize orders to meet specific requirements. Whether you need cutting wheels of particular dimensions or materials tailored for specialized applications, Staarek Abrasive delivers solutions that align with your business needs. Furthermore, buying in bulk reduces the frequency of shipments, resulting in lower transportation costs and simpler logistics management.

Why Staarek Abrasive Is the Best Choice

As a leading Cutting Wheel Manufacturer in India, Staarek Abrasive has built a reputation for excellence through our commitment to quality, innovation, and customer satisfaction. Our cutting wheels are manufactured using state-of-the-art technology and premium-grade raw materials, ensuring they are durable, efficient, and safe for use.

We cater to a variety of industries, offering cutting wheels designed for different applications such as metal cutting, stone cutting, and heavy-duty operations. Our extensive product range includes thin cutting wheels for precision work and reinforced cutting wheels for demanding tasks. Whatever your application, we have the right solution for you.

What sets us apart is our direct manufacturer-to-customer approach, which eliminates middlemen and allows us to offer factory-direct pricing. This means you get high-quality cutting wheels at the most competitive rates. Additionally, we adhere to stringent quality control measures, ensuring that every product leaving our facility meets the highest standards.

Maximizing Savings with Staarek Abrasive

When you choose Staarek Abrasive as your bulk supplier, you’re not just buying cutting wheels—you’re investing in quality and reliability. Our cutting wheels are engineered to last longer and perform better, reducing the need for frequent replacements and saving your business money over time. Furthermore, our bulk discounts and customized pricing options ensure that you receive the best value for your investment.

By partnering with Staarek Abrasive, you also gain access to our expert support team, who are available to assist you with product selection, order customization, and any technical queries. Our commitment to customer satisfaction extends to ensuring on-time delivery, so you can rely on us to keep your operations running smoothly.

Applications of Staarek Abrasive Cutting Wheels

Our cutting wheels are widely used across industries such as metal fabrication, construction, automotive, and aerospace. In metalworking, they are ideal for cutting pipes, rods, and sheets with precision and speed. In the construction industry, our cutting wheels are used for materials like concrete, tiles, and granite, delivering clean and efficient cuts.

For automotive and aerospace applications, where precision is paramount, our cutting wheels provide the reliability and accuracy needed for high-stakes operations. No matter your industry, Staarek Abrasive products are designed to enhance productivity and deliver exceptional results.

How to Place Your Bulk Order

Ordering cutting wheels in bulk from Staarek Abrasive is straightforward. Begin by reaching out to our team via phone, email, or our website to discuss your requirements. Once we understand your needs, we’ll provide a customized quote that reflects the size and specifications of your order. After you finalize the order, we’ll ensure that your cutting wheels are manufactured, packaged, and delivered promptly.

We prioritize clear communication and transparency throughout the process, so you can rest assured that your order will be handled professionally and efficiently.

Why Staarek Abrasive Leads the Industry

At Staarek Abrasive, we are driven by a mission to deliver superior products that empower businesses to succeed. Our dedication to quality, affordability, and customer service has positioned us as the preferred choice for cutting wheels in India. By choosing us, you’re not just buying cutting tools—you’re gaining a trusted partner committed to supporting your growth.

Conclusion

For businesses seeking high-quality cutting wheels at competitive prices, Staarek Abrasive is the ideal partner. As a trusted Cutting Wheel Manufacturer in India, we provide premium products, exceptional customer service, and unmatched value. Whether you’re looking to buy in bulk for cost savings or need specialized solutions for your industry, Staarek Abrasive has you covered.

Contact us today to learn more about our products and services or to place your bulk order. Let Staarek Abrasive help you achieve maximum savings and operational efficiency with cutting wheels designed to meet the demands of your business.

Get in Touch Today!

Ready to place your order? Contact Staarek Abrasive with just one call [+91 9099247832] to discuss your requirements. Let us help you take your business to the next level with cutting wheels designed to deliver excellence.

Check our website: https://www.staarek.com/

Mail us on :   info@staarek.com

[teaveetamer]

I can't speak for other countries, but in NA I have no problem finding physical copies of Engage. Target and Wal-Mart have plenty.

I mean North America is a pretty big place and it’s not like stock shortages hit every area exactly equally. Demand doesn’t distribute exactly equally and different places likely order or receive different amounts of copies just depending on population, previous demand, the corporate point person in charge of the region, etc. One of my NA mutuals just started seeing the game on shelves like this week, and I’m sure other places have had no issues with stock.