Changes in styling and rapidly changing consumer tastes, combined with the shift of responsibility for inventory from the retailer/wholesaler to the manufacturer, are forcing manufacturers to manage their businesses in an entirely different manner than in the past.

Consequently, many manufacturers are using a combination of domestic manufacturing, including outside contractors, 807/9802/NAFTA work and import programs to meet the demands of the market.

The AIC software will show users developing trends, allow them to make immediate changes to raw material purchasing plans, initiate change to the company's production facilities and give credible delivery information to their customers -- all on a moment's notice.