The selection process tends to get all the attention, but that's really only the starting point for a successful relationship with your motor carrier or third-party logistics service provider. To help shippers move on to the next stage in the relationship, the University of Wisconsin's School of Business offers a two-day course that focuses on contract development and relationship management.

"Contracting and Managing Motor Carrier and Logistics Services in Supply Chains" takes a case-study approach, helping students learn how to manage and administer long-term contracts effectively through real-world examples. Among other topics, the class will address appropriate performance measurements, the role of the contracts administrator and manager, and how to structure management teams. Students will also look at the legal side of relationship management and build an action plan for implementing what they have learned when they go back home.

Faculty members include Professor Emeritus Edward Marien, attorney Daniel Sullivan, and Schneider Logistics general manager Wade Zernicke. The course will be offered April 2-4 and Oct. 22-23 for $1,195. For more information, visit http://exed.wisc.edu/purchasing/.