Classic logistics handbooks updated

Sure, you can find a lot of the information you need to do your job online these days. But sometimes nothing beats a good old-fashioned reference book. We recently received word that two classic reference works for warehouse and logistics managers are now available in revised and updated versions.

Supervising on the Line, by the late labor management expert Gene Gagnon, has been the bible for warehouse managers and supervisors since its publication in 1988. The reason for its continuing popularity? The text tells readers "how to actually lead, manage, communicate, direct, and measure their associates," writes Jim Barnes, president and CEO of the supply chain and enterprise consulting firm enVista, in the foreword to the second edition.

Barnes was invited by Gagnon's son Al (who works for enVista as an industrial engineer) to revise the book. Barnes has carefully updated the compact guidebook to reflect technological advances and other industry developments. The new version is as practical and plainspoken as the original, and Barnes has taken great care to retain Gagnon's voice and ideas. The book can be ordered for $12.95 at www.envistacorp.com.

The fifth edition of Glossary of Supply Chain Terminology—For Business, Purchasing, Manufacturing, Warehousing, and Technology Pros, by Philip Obal of the technology consulting firm IDII, is considerably heftier than its predecessor. No matter which of those areas you work in, you'll find a comprehensive list of definitions for words and acronyms that are used daily in written and spoken communication.

The 700-page book is available from Amazon.com or from the publisher at www.idii.com/orderdigital.htm. An online, password-protected version also is available by subscription.