Turn Stress into an Asset

Stress is unavoidable, but it doesn't have to be damaging. When managed correctly, strain can positively impact productivity and performance. Here are three things you can do to make stress work for you:
• Recognize worry for what it is. Stress is a feeling, not a sign of dysfunction. When you start to worry, realize it's an indication that you care about something, not a cause
for panic.
• Focus on what you can control. Too many people feel bad about things they simply can't change. Remember what you can affect and what you can't.
• Create a supportive network. Knowing you have somebody to turn to can help a lot. Build relationships so that you have people to rely on in times of stress.

From "Turning Stress into an Asset" by Amy Gallo.

Manila Amendments to STCW

Hello C/TL people -

Your old seadog here. Just reminding those directly involved in the shipping and manning industry about the following:

STCW 2010 Amendments : What you need to know.
It is widely known that IMO held a Diplomatic Conference in Manila, Philippines, earlier last year 2010 to discuss amendments to STCW. What most people fail to identify is the extent of revisions and the implementation realities behind that.

STCW Manila Amendments
On June 25th, 2010, the International Maritime Organization (IMO) and other major stakeholders in the global shipping and manning industry formally ratified the so-called "Manila Amendments" to the current Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers (STCW) and its associated Code. The amendments aim to bring the STCW up to date with developments since its conception and initial adoption in 1978, and the subsequent amendments in 1995.

Entry Into Force
The Convention amendments will be adopted with a tacit acceptance procedure which has been agreed indicating that amendments will be accepted by 1st July 2011 UNLESS more than 50% of the parties to the STCW object such a development. As a result STCW Amendments are set to enter into force on January 1, 2012.

The foregoing are only introductory parts. Suggest consult details from the list of amendments which are long.

Mobile technology gains in supply chain and logistics sectors

Logistics professionals are certainly moving toward mobile applications to improve overall supply chain operations, but just how fast is it happening? Our technology correspondent gives us a reality check.
With tablet computers and handheld devices maintaining their tight grip on the business world, it just makes sense that the logistics sector would continue its forward momentum toward a time when wires are a thing of the past.
Long talked about in supply chain circles, goals like “real time” and “visibility” are already coming to fruition for tech-savvy shippers that integrate wireless, RFID, and other mobile technologies into their operations.
Over the next few pages we’ll take a look at just how much traction mobile technologies have gained in today’s supply chain, discuss the benefits of RFID and wireless integrations, and highlight what barriers to adoption still remain. We’ll also illustrate just how close we are to real-time supply chain management and logistics visibility—and how far we have to go before we get there.
“One supply chain executive told me that by the time he goes through the six-month purchase approval process at his firm for wireless technology, three generations of smart phones have come and gone,” says Ellis.
IDC reports that mobile applications and devices are penetrating the sales and marketing organization at a “staggering pace,” and expects total worldwide smartphone shipments to reach 925.7 million units by 2015 (compared to 450 million in 2011). Computer tablets like the iPad, Motorola XOOM, and Samsung Galaxy Tab are also growing in popularity, and are on pace to reach shipments of roughly 50 million units in 2011 (up 18 million units in 2010).
Expect to see at least a portion of those mobile devices in the warehouse, where more shippers are gravitating toward wireless environments. In those logistics environments, Zimmerman says requirements for specific key sizes—and the ability to withstand multiple, 6-foot drops to a concrete floor—have given way to durable devices that share the operating systems, processors, communications, batteries, and even peripheralization with their more ruggedized brethren.
Not all shippers are reaping the rewards of these wireless advancements, although many are looking to upgrade and begin seeing those benefits. “A lot of [shippers] in the warehouse and distribution sector still have a lot of the old technology installed,” Zimmerman says, “and are looking to integrate the value and cost advantages of an 802.11n solution.”
That movement is also being driven by the fact that wireless handset providers like Motorola are rolling out 802.11n-capable devices. “That’s sending a signal to the industry that now is the time to upgrade wireless infrastructures to support those handhelds,” says Zimmerman, “and tap into the value that they provide.”
Part of the growth in wireless will come from the handheld market, where durable devices are gaining popularity among shippers that increasingly want to handle their warehouse and transportation operations without the hassle of wires. “The cost profiles and functionality of handheld devices is making their adoption more advantageous for companies,” says Zimmerman, who points out that improved Wi-Fi networks, Wi-Fi hot spots, and better cellular capabilities are all playing a role in the evolution.

AAPA to focus on Asia Pacific trade lanes

The American Association of Port Authorities (AAPA) will have some prominent shippers and rail partners sharing insights at its upcoming annual convention and expo.

While the AAPA meeting is always stimulating and informative, this year’s event at the Port of Seattle should be especially engaging. Given that it’s being staged on the West Coast alone is sufficient reason to attend, for industry analysts agree that the dynamism and complexity of the Asia Pacific transport and logistics market offers the best prospects for growth and returns.

Of special note, convention attendees will have the opportunity to hear about the important economic role of ports from Washington. State Governor Chris Gregoire will give the opening day keynote address, sharing his perspective on the global economy. Then shippers will learn of trade trends from Microsoft Corporation General Counsel and Senior Vice President Brad Smith. Later in the week, the program will feature BNSF Chairman and CEO Matt Rose, who will speak on the value of, and challenges to, the global supply chain network.

The convention will conclude with a members-only annual meeting and installation of new officers for the Association’s upcoming fiscal year, including appointment of Virginia Port Authority Executive Director Jerry Bridges as chairman of the board for AAPA’s centennial year, 2011-2012.

Guess is that ports in the gulf and eastern seaboard will be keen on collecting market intelligence on Asia sourcing strategies that include using “all water” routes by 2014.

How to Get the Boring Tasks Done

Think of why you are doing the task and how good it will feel when it is done. Instead of focusing your mind on how boring a task may feel focus your thoughts on why you are doing this and how good it will feel when you are done with it. If needed, sit down for a few minutes, close your eyes and see in your mind and feel how good it will be when you are there, when you are done with the task. Then go to work with that motivation and those positive feelings in your body.

Do it mindfully. When you sort papers, do the laundry or do the dishes be fully there. Focus 100% on just the fork with all your senses – how it feels, looks and smells – as you are scrubbing it and nothing else. Don’t get lost in daydreams. If you are just there I have found that even such a simple and mundane task becomes more enjoyable and something that can bring inner calm rather than distress.

Don’t think too much. Get going instead. The more you think about the boring task the more boring it seems in your mind. And so it becomes harder and harder to get started and to get to done. So try to think very little about it. Just make a decision to start doing the task, get up and go do it right away.

Make a deal with yourself and set a timer for 10 minutes. It is often in easier to do tasks like these in small bursts. So make a deal with yourself to make a dent in this task. Make a deal to just spend 10 minutes on your inbox, mundane reading or cleaning the house. Set a kitchen timer and say to yourself that you only have to do this work for 10 minutes. When the timer rings you can continue doing it if you feel like it (this often happens to me because getting started is the hard part). Or you can stop and go do something more interesting instead.

Create a pleasurable distraction. If possible, try to listen to the radio, your favorite songs, an audio book or watch a movie or TV-episode while doing your boring task. You don’t always have to do just one thing at a time in silence. I often listen to music or watch an episode of the Simpsons while doing the dishes or other routine work at home.

Reward yourself. When you are done with your task then reward yourself. Take a walk in the sun, move on to a more fun or creative task at work or in school or have a tasty treat. This habit can make it easier to get started and to keep going each day. Because you know that you can look forward to not just being done and the long-term payoff from that but also your immediate reward right after you are finished.

Maggots

They're creepy, slimy and altogether ooky, but maggots can save your life. These squirmy larvae are science's newest wonder-cure and were approved in 2003 as the Food & Drug Administration's only live medical device. Placed on serious wounds, maggots mimic their "wild" lifestyle and munch on bacteria and dead tissue, stimulating healing and helping to prevent infection.

The International Chamber of Shipping has compiled a useful reference document collating the policy and rules of Flag States on the carriage of arms and private armed guards on board vessels.

The document, providing tabulated information on Flag States' rules, has been added to the ICS website and is proving to be a popular reference tool for shipowners and other interested parties within the shipping community.

Kiran Khosla, ICS Director of Legal Affairs and secretary of the ICS' maritime law and insurance committee, says:

"When the information is compiled together like this it is interesting to see the similarities
and variations in approach throughout the international community. Piracy remains a major source of concern among shipowners and the wider shipping industry and we are not surprised that members are keen to ensure they are up to speed with the latest recommendation and advice. The consensus view among ICS national shipowner associations remains that private armed guards are a clear second best to military personnel. However, in view of the current crisis, ICS has had to acknowledge that the decision to engage armed guards, whether military or private, is the decisionto be made by the ship operatorafter due consideration of all the risks and subject to the approval of the vessel's Flag State and insurer."

source: www.worldmaritimenews.com/archives/27970

USA: BAEs Shipyard to Build Twin Screw Trailing Suction Hopper Dredger

BAE Systems Southeast Shipyards announced its first contract to build a new ship from scratch at its Mobile River facility.

Weeks Marine Inc. hired BAE to build a 356-foot-long, 79-foot-wide dredging vessel for use in the U.S., according to BAE. The twin screw trailing suction hopper will have a capacity of 8,500 cubic yards.

The contract is worth $85 million, according to BAE.

BAE officials said they will immediately begin engineering work and buying materials. The first steel for the ship will be cut in early 2012, and it will be delivered in January 2014.

The work will require the shipyard to add about 150 employees to its 800-person workforce during the life of the contract, according to Vic Rhoades, the general manager of BAE’s Mobile operation.

SMC to buy Exxon Mobil businesses in Malaysia

MANILA, Philippines (AP) — Philippine conglomerate San Miguel Corp. is buying Exxon Mobil's oil refinery and gas stations in Malaysia for $610 million.

The company said Wednesday it has signed agreements to buy three Exxon Mobil subsidiaries involved in refining, distributing and marketing petroleum products.

Physical assets include the Port Dickson refinery, seven fuel distribution terminals, and about 560 gas stations.

SMC President Ramon Ang says the business is attractive, with "plenty of room to move up the value chain by upgrading refinery capabilities."

SMC's subsidiary Petron Corp. is the Philippines' largest oil refining and marketing company.

source: http://ph.news.yahoo.com/smc-buy-exxon-mobil-businesses-malaysia-121354277.html

ShipNet Launches YouTube Channel

ShipNet is now using YouTube as a new means of supporting customers.

A seven-minute video showing the ShipNet’s Voyage Estimator, part of its Chartering and Operations package, is the first to be released, and ShipNet is planning to build the content up so the full suite of content can be covered, providing a ready introduction on how to make the most of its software that can be accessed at any time.

“Talking about how our solutions can help our customers is one thing, but being able to show it makes it much more real”, says Managing Director Miguel Dainesi, “using services like YouTube reinforces the point that we are actively developing solutions that make the most of advanced technology”.

EPA Regulation Coming at The Wrong Time

As the Environmental Protection Agency takes more time to finalize its proposed ozone standard, shippers question if this action is really necessary at all.

According to National Association of Manufacturers (NAM) President and CEO Jay Timmons, 
the economic recovery remains stalled as shippers face unprecedented regulations.



“Manufacturers have made it very clear that this discretionary action by the EPA to revise the ozone standard would harm the economy and threaten job creation,” he told constituents.

He said the Administration took yet another step in delaying the standard, and manufacturers hope this is a sign that the Administration is hearing their concerns.

“Piling on an unnecessary and unrealistic ozone standard would be yet another setback. Studies show the proposed ozone standard could result in millions of jobs lost and $1 trillion per year in compliance costs,” said Timmons. 



Shippers are beginning to speak with one voice to persuade the Administration to abandon its current reconsideration efforts until a review is required in 2013, and to carefully consider the dire consequences this standard will have on job growth and the struggling economy.

Philippines may soon own vast gas-rich area

The Philippines will gain 13 million hectares in additional territory, an area slightly smaller than Luzon, should the United Nations approve next year the government’s claim on a region off the coast of Isabela and Aurora, Environment Secretary Ramon Jesus Paje said on Monday.

Paje said the undersea region, called Benham Rise, could turn the Philippines into a natural gas exporter because of the area’s huge methane deposits.

Studies conducted by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) for the past five years indicate large deposits of methane in solid form, Paje said after a Senate budget hearing.

The government is only awaiting a formal declaration from the UN Convention of the Law of the Sea (Unclos) that Benham Rise is on the country’s continental shelf and therefore part of its territory, Paje said.

source: http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/42329/philippines-may-soon-own-vast-gas-rich-area

BEER.....Hmmmmm

The newest bad kid on the block, beer has long been overshadowed by its healthier alcoholic cousins. While no one's suggesting you switch that glass of antioxidant-rich Pinot Noir for a tall glass of lager-there's still that beer gut to worry about-new research has suggested that moderate beer intake can actually improve cardiovascular function. Now if only a scientist will discover the health benefits of ballpark franks and chicken wings. Heaven.

quotes! quotes! quotes!

"The secret of getting ahead is getting started. The secret of getting started is breaking your complex overwhelming tasks into small manageable tasks, and then starting on the first one."
~ Mark Twain

"You must not procrastinate. Rather, you should make preparations so that even if you did die tonight, you would have no regrets. If you develop an appreciation for the uncertainty and imminence of death, your sense of the importance of using your time wisely will get stronger and stronger." ~Dalai Lama

"Work while it is called today, for you know not how much you may be hindered tomorrow. One today is worth two tomorrows; never leave that till tomorrow which you can do today."
~ Benjamin Franklin

"The way to get started is to quit talking and begin doing." ~Walt Disney

The Philippines may soon be a natural gas exporter

The Philippines will gain 13 million hectares in additional territory, an area slightly smaller than Luzon, should the United Nations approve next year the government’s claim on a region off the coast of Isabela and Aurora. This undersea region, called Benham Rise, could turn the Philippines into a natural gas exporter because of the area’s huge methane deposits. Studies conducted by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) for the past five years indicate large deposits of methane in solid form. The Philippine government is only awaiting a formal declaration from the UN Convention of the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) that Benham Rise is on the country’s continental shelf and therefore part of its territory. Once the UNCLOS establishes that Benham Rise is part of the Philippines, the country would have legal basis to enter into exploration agreements with private companies to explore the area’s resources.
(source: http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/42329/philippines-may-soon-own-vast-gas-rich-area)

Top 20 largest shipping flags (October 2010)

Around 90% of world trade is carried by the international shipping industry.

Without shipping the import and export of goods on the scale necessary for the modern world would not be possible.

Seaborne trade continues to expand, bringing benefits for consumers across the world through competitive freight costs. Thanks to the growing efficiency of shipping as a mode of transport and increased economic liberalisation, the prospects for the industry's further growth continue to be strong.

There are over 50,000 merchant ships trading internationally, transporting every kind of cargo. The world fleet is registered in over 150 nations, and manned by over a million seafarers of virtually every nationality.

Nautilus Granted Exploration Tenements In Fijian Waters

Nautilus Minerals Inc. has become the first private sector organization to be granted offshore exploration licenses in Fiji.
The Fijian Government has granted the company fourteen special prospecting licenses, covering a total of approximately 60,000 km2. The territory is considered highly prospective, having been the subject of marine research by Japanese, French and other scientific cruises in the late 1980s and early 1990s. The licenses each have an initial term of two years.
Under the terms of a regional area of interest agreement signed with Teck Resources in 2007, Teck holds the right to earn an interest in the Fijian tenements by contributing to exploration spending. Teck has not yet indicated whether it intends to exercise that right.
Following the grant of the Fijian leases, Nautilus holds exclusive exploration tenements covering a total of approximately 230,000 km2 in the western Pacific, and has applied for a further 370,000 km2, taking the total to approximately 600,000 km2.
Nautilus' CEO, Steve Rogers said the award of the licenses was an important step forward for Nautilus and for Fiji.
"The territory is very promising and has the potential to host significant high grade deposits of copper, zinc, silver and gold.
"Following the recent grant of exploration licenses by the International Seabed Authority, the Fijian government's decision to select Nautilus as the first private sector, commercial organization to be granted offshore exploration leases reconfirms the leading status of Nautilus in this new industry," he said.
Nautilus is developing the world's first deepwater seafloor resource development project at Solwara 1, in the Bismarck Sea of Papua New Guinea. The project is well advanced, with all permitting in place and construction of remote-controlled seafloor production equipment having commenced.

source: http://www.seadiscovery.com/mtStories.aspx?ShowStrory=1049462113

Mastermind Alliance

Mastermind alliance, joint venture, business partners, cooperation… Call it what you want, you need a mastermind alliance with others to be successful.

A mastermind alliance in its simplest form is just people working together for a common goal. A true mastermind alliance however is much different and is formed when a group of two or more people come together and work in perfect harmony. When you come together in perfect harmony with a group of people your energy is mixed with theirs and together you have much more power than any one individual alone.
The John Donne quote “No man is an island” does a great job to summarize that no one can be successful without the aid of others. Even the lone inventer slaving away in his basement still needs the help of others to manufacture and market his invention when ready.

There is synergy of energy, commitment and excitement that participants bring to a mastermind group.

Mastermind groups offer a combination of masterminding, peer brainstorming, education, accountability and support in a group setting to sharpen your business and personal skills. A mastermind group helps you and your mastermind group members achieve success.

Malaysia: Flag States Sign Declaration Condemning Acts of Violence Against Seafarers

Posted on Aug 10th, 2011

Three of the largest flag states, accounting for around 40% of the world’s commercial shipping tonnage, have signed an agreement condemning the acts of violence against seafarers by pirates. The flag states agreed to pool information on the mistreatment of seafarers at the hands of pirates.
The flag states signed a Declaration in Washington on 3 August 2011, condemning the acts of violence against seafarers. The Declaration recognised that the increasing use of violence against captured seafarers was underreported and noted that there were significant sensitivities associated with such information.
The Declaration affirmed their commitment to provide information on the levels of violence faced by seafarers to the International Maritime Bureau (IMB) from reports received by them in accordance with their internal procedures.
The IMB will collate and disseminate aggregated data of the levels of violence. The reports will omit their names, the names of the vessels, owners, operators and flag states to protect identities and privacy.
The project is supported by the One Earth Future Foundation (OEFF) and the TK Foundation.

The total number of attacks worldwide stands at 304, with 31 successful hijackings.

IMB strongly urges all shipmasters and owners to continue to report all worldwide actual, attempted or suspicious piracy and armed robbery incidents to the IMB’s Piracy Reporting Centre.

Let’s talk, SMC asks CIAC

San Miguel Corp. (SMC), which acquired a majority stake in Philco Aero Inc., is asking Clark International Airport Corp. (CIAC) to resume and accelerate their long-delayed negotiations for the $177-million Diosdado Macapagal International Airport (DMIA) Terminal 2 Project.

Philco Aero, which used to be a privately held Filipino-Korean consortium, is the original proponent of the DMIA T2 project. Its unsolicited proposal for this multimillion-dollar venture was accepted by the CIAC board on May 17, 2010.

SMC has put up a holding company, which recently acquired 70 percent of Philco Aero, to conclude a transaction that began early last year.

Penson and Company Inc., SMC’s partner in the venture, will own 30 percent of the holding company.

After a meeting with SMC officials on Wednesday, Philco Aero president and CEO Ricardo L. Penson disclosed that SMC was keen on advancing the long-delayed negotiations with CIAC for the T2 project as “the delay is causing undue inconvenience to the public in general and to the public-private partnership efforts of the Aquino administration in particular.”

source: http://business.inquirer.net/11965/let%E2%80%99s-talk-smc-asks-ciac

10 Tips for Creating a Successful Business

1. Understand that you as the business owner are responsible for everything that happens in your business. You cannot delegate that responsibility.
2. The attitude of the business owner is reflected in the employees working in the business. If you don’t like the attitude you see in your employees – look in the mirror.
3. Personal growth and business growth are not the same but they are closely related. When you stop growing as a person you stop growing your business.
4. Know that you don’t know everything. It is not possible. When you come to that realization, investing in trusted advisors makes so much sense and it becomes an easy decision.
5. Life is short. Enjoy what you do and others will see that and be attracted to you. It is fun to work with and be around someone who is positive and excited about what they do. If you don’t like what you do, find something else to do.
6. Give others credit for their contribution to your success. Everyone loves to be a part of something bigger than themselves and to be recognized for their contribution to the overall success of the organization.
7. Know that your success is tied directly to how well you motivate, manage, inspire, sell and encourage people. Your success, especially as you grow your business comes through the performance of others.
8. If you can’t measure it how do you know it works? Measure everything.
9. You must understand how the business you are creating will help you create the life you want. There can be no misunderstanding. True success lies in creating a business that is consistent with and supports the life you want to create.
10. Develop a passion for your work and have fun!
By: Ron Finklestein, Small Business Success Expert

Small contribution to overall marine pollution

Sea transport is one of the least environmentally damaging modes of transport and, when compared with land based industry, is a comparatively minor contributor to marine pollution from human activities.

It is estimated that land based discharge (sewage, industrial effluent and urban/river run off etc.) and atmospheric inputs from land industry sources account for some 77% of marine pollution generated from human activities. In contrast, maritime transport is only responsible for some 12% of the total (see graphic). However, these United Nations estimates were produced in 1990 and the proportion of marine pollution that can be attributed to shipping is now thought to be lower than 10%.

Israel Deploys UAVs on Gas Fields in Mediterranean Sea for Additional Protection

Fearing possible attacks by Hezbollah on gas fields in the Mediterranean Sea, the Israel Air Force (IAF) has recently begun deploying unmanned aerial vehicles as an additional layer of protection, Xinhua reported.

The IAF’s Heron drone, specially developed by the state-run Israel Aerospace Industries for maritime operations, has been flying surveillance missions over rigs off the coast of Haifa, thus enabling the military to maintain constant monitoring of the sites, The Jerusalem Post reported Tuesday.

The decision to deploy the UAVs came after Hezbollah vowed to protect Lebanon’s maritime sovereignty.

On July 14, Sheikh Naim Qassem, Hezbollah’s deputy secretary general, said that Lebanon will not allow Israel to seize its oil, gas and water resources.

“Lebanon will stand guard in order to protect all its rights, no matter the cost,”Qassem was quoted as saying.

The discovery of vast gas reserves that can potentially yield billions of U.S. dollars over the past two years has prompted Lebanon to contest the demarcation of its northern maritime border with Israel by submitting to the United Nations its version of the border’s location.

Early last month, Israel’s cabinet approved its version of the demarcation of the border, which sets the economic rights in offshore territories, according to Tuesday’s report. The Israeli government has thus far rejected indirect talks via the UN to resolve the issue.

Meanwhile, the Israel Navy is preparing to launch operations of its own to protect the offshore rigs. The defense establishment is reportedly concerned that Hezbollah may attempt to target them with explosive-laden vessels or anti-ship missiles, according to the report.

The report quoted a senior naval officer telling a conference in Tel Aviv last week that Hezbollah and Hamas currently possess missiles that can hit Israeli ports or offshore gas rigs.

Know the Value of a Pat on the Back

An abundance of studies have demonstrated the power of touch on everything from Rhesus monkeys to students in a classroom. A pat on the back or a brief touch on the shoulder can express support and reassurance, making the recipient more willing to take risks and improving his decision making. Next time you want to communicate support to a colleague, convey your intention through a small touch. Often times, contact can be more powerful than words. Use touch sparingly though, and don't linger; it only takes a brief moment of contact; any longer can feel creepy.

Source: adapted from "An Effective (and Underused) Way to Reassure and Motivate" by Peter Bregman

World Container Index launched September

MANILA, Philippines — Drewry Shipping Consultants and the Cleartrade Exchange will launch the World Container Index (WCI), the first Europe-based assessment of container freight rates and index production in September 2011.

The index will provide a new and important facility for the global market to hedge their freight rate risk and see major improvements in forward price discovery through the container derivatives market.

Drewry said the new index will be the first of its kind to report weekly freight rates on backhaul as well as headhaul routes and will provide increased efficiencies in hedging strategies for freight users dealing in bulk, commoditized and recovered cargoes.

In August, the index will be made available to a small number of lead organizations for final testing and feedback prior to launch for trading on 1st September, 2011.

Contracts will be available with at least one clearing house at or soon after the launch date and subscriptions to the index will be available from 22nd August, 2011

The WCI reports agreed spot container freight rates for major East West trade routes and consists of 11 route-specific indices representing individual shipping routes and a composite index; the WCI has also confirmed that it will collect and publish weekly market assessments for the following routes:

Shanghai to Rotterdam; Rotterdam to Shanghai; Shanghai to Genoa; Genoa to Shanghai; Shanghai to Los Angeles; Los Angeles to Shanghai; Shanghai to New York; New York to Rotterdam; Rotterdam to New York; Los Angeles to Rotterdam and Rotterdam to Los Angeles.

The WCI assessments are reports of the value of agreed freight rates between major container lines and shippers or freight forwarders.

read more at http://www.mb.com.ph/articles/329968/world-container-index-launched-september

2 Ways You Shouldn't Pitch an Idea

Coming up with ideas is easy. Selling them to strangers is hard. Entrepreneurs and executives alike often go to great lengths to explain how their concepts are novel and profitable, only to be rejected. Avoid the same fate by steering clear of these two approaches:

* The pushover. Don't offer to change things at the slightest hint of disapproval. Caving in to criticism doesn't demonstrate flexibility; it shows you don't care about your idea. Instead, defend it.

* The used-car salesman. Be persuasive, not unctuous. Don't act like everyone should think your idea is great. Be realistic about what your proposal will do for
your audience.

Source: adapted from Harvard Business Review on Communicating Effectively

The Impact of United State’s credit rating downgrade on the Philippine economy

Standard and Poor's (S&P) downgraded the U.S. credit rating from triple A to double A-plus. S&P cut the AAA rating that it had given to the United States since l941 over concerns about the U.S. government's budget deficit and rising debt problem.
Since, the United States is the country's biggest trading partner and leading source of foreign investments, the impact of the downgrade on Philippine economy is "serious," because it would result in lower exports, slower inflow of remittances from overseas Filipino workers, and reduced foreign direct investments (FDIs). According to Prof. Benjamin Diokno, former budget secretary, the downgrade will also affect the public private partnership (PPP) program, the centerpiece of the economic policy of the administration of President Benigno Aquino III.
(source:http://www.philstar.com/nation/article.aspx?publicationsubcategoryid=200&articleid=714590)

A crucial ingredient in the diets of the world's heart-healthiest populations-like those Bordeaux-guzzling French-red wine has long been known to have potent anti-cancer and artery-protecting benefits. The key, some studies indicate, is an antioxidant found specifically in the skin of red wine grapes, called resveratrol. The latest studies even link resveratrol to greater endurance, a reduction in gum disease and Alzheimer's. White wine, which is fermented after the skins are removed, is less beneficial according to some studies.

WheelHouse Technologies Introduces WheelHouse Mobile for Smart Phones

WheelHouse Technologies, Inc. has launched WheelHouse Mobile, designed to provide real-time maintenance alerts and maintenance update capabilities from any smart phone in the cellular network. WheelHouse Mobile is a customer-driven enhancement to WheelHouse, intended to provide a fast and easy way to receive maintenance alerts and update maintenance using their mobile device.

WheelHouse Mobile takes advantage of smart phone technology and provides service wherever a cellular signal is available. With the ever-expanding coverage area provided by top tier cellular providers, owners and their captains can use WheelHouse Mobile to stay up to date on maintenance alerts for their yachts.
WheelHouse Mobile is available to all current and future WheelHouse yacht and fleet users and is included at no additional cost in their WheelHouse subscription. Users will receive maintenance alerts via a brief email message as they are triggered. They can then update the maintenance task, identify parts used, and record other maintenance notes. Data entered on the smart phone is dynamically uploaded to the WheelHouse cloud and is immediately available on any web-connected device.
Like WheelHouse for web, the mobile application does not require an application download to the mobile device. Users can just click the email link in the maintenance alert email, or the shortcut icon on their phone, and start reviewing and updating maintenance.

source: http://www.maritimetoday.com/ShowStory.aspx?StoryID=224352

DHL wins contract worth GBP 1.6 billion revenue!

DHL Logistics has won a 10-year deal totaling GBP 1.6 billion /Euro 2.3 billion in revenue to manage GBP 22 billion/Euro 32 billion total spend with the UK Government's Department of Health.

Klaus Zumwinkel, CEO and Chairman of Deutsche Post World Net, said the contract marked the significant success of the Group's strategy: "After the take-over of Exel and given DHL's extensive expertise in the health sector, we were able to make our customer a truly convincing offer. We now reap the benefits of both our internationalization strategy and our broad product range."

DHL will run a division called NHS Supply Chain, on behalf of NHS Business Services Authority. Under the agreement, DHL will run a division called NHS Supply Chain, on behalf of NHS Business Services Authority, and be responsible for delivering all procurement and logistics services across an initial 500,000 products to support 600 hospitals and other health providers in England.

The business will ensure that public health (NHS) authorities can dedicate more resources to patient care and continue to manage their cost base. It will help protect existing jobs and lead to the creation of over 1,000 additional positions.

John Pattullo, Chief Operating Officer for DHL Exel Supply Chain, Europe, Middle East and Africa, adds, "By applying commercial experience and procedures to core logistics and procurement functions, and working very closely with the supplier community, we now have a unique opportunity to deliver innovative, high quality products to support public health in England. This is exactly the kind of strategic sourcing deal where we think we can generate major value for our customers, in this case - the NHS."

In addition, DHL will have freedom to invest and develop the business along commercial best practice, work even more closely alongside industry professionals and suppliers, and introduce more employees to the benefits of working alongside DHL.

Firm develops new e-commerce solution for ocean freight industry

August 4, 2011, 12:55pm

MANILA, Philippines — INTTRA, a provider of e-commerce applications to the ocean freight industry, has developed an automated invoice comparison and dispute initiation system, called INTTRA Automatch.

Available with INTTRA eInvoice, the electronic invoice presentment and dispute management product, Automatch eliminates the need for manual invoice verification, said Parsippany, a New Jersey-based company.

INTTRA Automatch identifies and initiates invoice disputes automatically using configurable business rules established by the shipper.

Through its own industry analysis, INTTRA learned that at least 25 percent of all invoices in the ocean freight industry are disputed.

In addition, companies are spending hours and potentially hundreds of dollars per invoice to manually process invoices to detect discrepancies, and initiate and manage the dispute.

“INTTRA Automatch makes the process nearly instantaneous, reducing dispute management costs and increasing accuracy and transparency to the shipping partners,” the company said. (EHL)

http://www.mb.com.ph/articles/329474/firm-develops-new-ecommerce-solution-ocean-freight-industry

Logistics Complicate Food Aid Transport to Somalia

The logistics of transporting aid to famine-stricken Somalia is daunting. Meticulous planning and funding are needed for such a massive effort. Kenya is serving as a transit point for the emergency and longer-term supplies being into Somalia, with the past month seeing a stream of shipments by air, road, and sea.

It’s been a busy month for the United Nations children’s agency, UNICEF. As the number of starving people has increased in Somalia, the agency has been scrambling to collect and deliver life-saving aid.

"We try and buy locally, in Nairobi, when we can, but obviously with the crisis as large as this we are looking to bring in supplies from other parts of the world," said Shantha Bloemen, spokesperson for UNICEF Somalia, based in Kenya’s capital Nairobi. "UNICEF has its supply division in Copenhagen. So we’ve already had, in the last few weeks, four full charter flights, 747, carrying about 350 tons of supplies into Nairobi, and then they’ll go either by ship, road, or air into Somalia.”

In total, UNICEF Somalia transported 2,000 metric tons of aid into Somalia during the month of July.

Such an operation requires strategic thinking, taking into consideration travel times, transportation infrastructure, security, and needs of the people on the ground.

to read more click here: http://www.voanews.com/english/news/africa/east/Logistics-Complicate-Food-Aid-Transport-to-Somalia-126776513.html

IMO signals green flag to use of armed guards on ships

The United Nations' (UN) International Maritime Organization (IMO) has endorsed the use of private armed guards to protect ships from pirate attacks.

After a meeting in IMO's London headquarters, the maritime body issued guidelines for the use of guards on board ships in areas of high risk, including in the Indian Ocean.

About one in 10 ships off the Somali coast already carry armed guards;
but observers say this number is likely to rise now that the UN has endorsed the practice.

The IMO says there were 489 reports of piracy and armed robbery against ships in 2010 - up to more than 20 percent on 2009.

The areas worst affected were the Indian Ocean, East Africa and the Far East including the South China Sea, South America and the Caribbean.

So far this year, more than 200 cases have been reported;
reports say piracy in the Indian Ocean is getting more lucrative and more violent, despite an anti-piracy European Union naval force patrolling the area.

The IMO insists that the guidelines are not intended to institutionalize the use of armed, privately contracted security staff on ships and that they do not address all the legal issues that could be linked to their use.

The IMO describes the guidance as "interim recommendations" and says it will review them in September.
Date: 02 Aug 2011 Source: PNA

Avoid Overinvesting in IT

Businesses worldwide pump $2 trillion a year into IT — and many of them are spending too much. If you fear you're overinvesting, try these three tips:
•Follow, don't lead. You don't have to be the first one out of the gate. Delay investments to save money and see what standards and best practices emerge. Let your impatient rivals shoulder the costs of experimentation.
•Focus on risks, not opportunities. Don't deploy your IT in radical new ways. Instead, dedicate your spending to mitigating disruptions like outages and security breaches.
•Spend less. Evaluate expected returns from IT investments. What's essential spending versus discretionary or unnecessary? Then eliminate waste, such as frequent upgrades.

Source: Harvard Business Review on Aligning Technology with Strategy.

Compete on Analytics

Differentiating your company based on products or cost is near impossible these days, especially in crowded industries. Instead, pull ahead of the pack by using data-collection technology and analysis to get value from all of your business processes. Analytics let you discern not only what your customers want, but how much they're willing to pay and what keeps them loyal. It also arms your employees with the evidence and tools they need to make sound decisions. Start by championing analytics from the top. Acknowledge and endorse the changes in culture, process, and skills that analytics competition requires. Be sure that you understand the theory behind various quantitative methods so you can recognize their limitations. If necessary, bring in experts who can advise on how to best apply analytics to your business.

Source: adapted from Harvard Business Review on Aligning Technology with Strategy

Philippines will seek oil in West Philippine Sea

The Philippines plans to auction off areas of the West Philippine Sea (South China Sea) for oil exploration, despite worsening territorial disputes with China over the area, an official said Tuesday.

Energy Undersecretary Jose Layug said several foreign firms, including China’s state-owned CNOOC Ltd., had already expressed interest in drilling in waters off the western Philippine island of Palawan.

The areas set for exploration are far from the disputed Spratly islands and well within the Philippines’ 200-nautical-mile exclusive economic zone, he said on the sidelines of an energy conference in Manila.

“These are not disputed areas. The area we are offering for bidding is definitely within the territory of the Republic of the Philippines.”

However, China is known to claim most of the West Philippine Sea, including areas the Philippines says are clearly Filipino territory.

Aside from CNOOC, two other Chinese firms are among those interested in contracts to drill in the area, Layug said without naming the other two.

The Philippines is to name the winning bidders next year, Layug said.

He expressed confidence the Chinese would not try to harass Philippine-sanctioned oil exploration vessels there.

“These areas are near Palawan which means they (winning bidders) will have to come to the Philippines to do it,” he said.

Tensions have risen in recent months, with countries in the region claiming China has been more aggressive in enforcing its claims on parts of the West Philippine Sea.

China, the Philippines, Vietnam, Malaysia, Brunei and Taiwan have overlapping claims to all or parts of the sea, which is believed to be rich in oil and gas deposits.

Last February, two Chinese vessels allegedly harassed a Filipino-commissioned exploration vessel off Reed Bank, an islet north of the Spratlys.

The Philippines has also accused Chinese forces of shooting at Filipino fishermen and placing markers on some of the islets.

The Reed Bank, which Manila calls “Recto Bank” and is also claimed by China, is 273 kilometers (170 miles) from Palawan.

Philippine officials said Manila had authorized drilling in that area before without any Chinese opposition.

source: http://globalnation.inquirer.net/7955/philippines-will-seek-oil-in-west-philippine-sea

3 Tips for Hiring Recent Graduates

Most hiring managers are now well versed in recruiting Millenials, but many firms still make avoidable mistakes. Most gaffes involve outdated hiring practices that alienate Gen Y. Here are three tips for reaching the top-performing graduates of this generation:

* Evaluate for potential, not experience. College students don't yet have a wealth of resume experience. Seek out those who are passionate and a cultural fit with your organization.
* Highlight flexible work arrangements. Millenials care more about social and flexible work environments than high salaries. Entice them with perks like extra vacation time and flexible scheduling.
* Show your culture. A good interview process should communicate the company culture. If your organization has a youthful, innovative vibe, be sure to convey that (but don't fake it).

Source: adapted from "When Hiring Graduates, Avoid These Mistakes" by Tom Moore and Brandon Labman

Smart technology moves up the supply chain

The mainstream business press is reporting that Asian financial markets are on the rebound as a consequence of news that the U.S. will avoid a default on its debt obligations. This was not the only story to celebrate this week, however. “Smart technology” is forecasted to drive demand for new products in the supply chain, thereby impacting a whole range of transport and logistical services.

The Semiconductor Industry Association (SIA), representing U.S. leadership in semiconductor manufacturing and design, today announced that worldwide sales of semiconductors were $24.7 billion for the month of June 2011, a 1.5 percent decrease from the prior month when sales were $25 billion and 0.5 percent decrease from a year ago. Sales in the second quarter were down 2 percent compared to the prior quarter. All monthly sales numbers represent a three-month moving average.

“Despite this month’s modest contraction in sales, the industry saw a 3.7 percent increase in the first half of 2011 sales compared to the same period last year which saw record breaking growth,” said Brian Toohey, president, Semiconductor Industry Association. “Overall semiconductor sales are on track with growth projections of 5.4 percent growth for 2011.”

Gains in the corporate PC refresh cycle, smartphone demand and the subsequent increased investment in IT infrastructure, as well as growing markets in China, were offset by slower consumer demand in June sales. As expected, all regions experienced growth, year to date over last year, except Japan, as the region continues to recover from the effects of the natural disaster earlier this year. Additionally, semiconductor content will continue to increase across all sectors of end-use products especially in the automotive sector.

“The semiconductor industry should be encouraged by the U.S. Administration’s announcement on Friday of increased fuel economy standards and the effort to include more green and smart technology in vehicles,” said Toohey.

We agree with the SIA that these standards will present additional opportunities for growth in the semiconductor industry, and while the implementation is years away, it is an indicator of the increasing demand for smart technology and the innovations enabled by U.S.-made microchips in the supply chain.

Russia Arctic Route to Rival Suez May Aid Sovcomflot IPO: Freight Markets

Russia plans to revive a Soviet-era Arctic sea passage to service energy projects and provide a shorter supply route to Asia for carriers such as OAO Sovcomflot as the shipping line prepares for an initial share sale this year.

Opening the northern sea route may allow state-owned Sovcomflot to speed natural-gas deliveries to China and win cargoes between Europe and Asia by offering a quicker alternative to the Suez Canal.

"If Russia gives the green light to develop this as a full commercial transit route, it would make Sovcomflot's whole investment case completely different," said Chris Weafer, Chief strategist at ING Bank NV in Moscow. "It would make it more attractive to potential investors."

Sovcomflot, along with companies such as OAO Novatek, is sending test cargoes via the Arctic route, which Prime Minister Vladimir Putin has vowed to transform into a year-round passage. To make it work, Russia must revamp ports, install rescue systems and build icebreakers for as much as 30 billion rubles ($1.1 billion) each to provide safe passage for tankers.

The northern sea route dates to 1932, when the Soviet Union sent the first vessel from Arkhangelsk to the Bering Strait. The route, open from July to November, is about a third shorter than the almost 13,000-mile journey from Rotterdam to Yokohama via the Suez Canal, saving time and fuel.

It also attract carriers seeking to avoid pirates in the waters of the East Africa and "Arab Spring" revolutions in the region around the Egyptian waterway.

Some logistics quotes to remember....

Not Sure if someone was looking for quotes on logistics so I will post a few here.

"Clearly, logistics is the hard part of fighting a war."
- Lt. Gen. E. T. Cook, USMC, November 1990

"Gentlemen, the officer who doesn't know his communications and supply as well as his tactics is totally useless."
- Gen. George S. Patton, USA

"Bitter experience in war has taught the maxim that the art of war is the art of the logistically feasible."
- ADM Hyman Rickover, USN

"Forget logistics, you lose."
- Lt. Gen. Fredrick Franks, USA, 7th Corps Commander, Desert Storm


"Amateurs talk about tactics, but professionals study logistics."
- Gen. Robert H. Barrow, USMC (Commandant of the Marine Corps) noted in 1980

"I am tempted to make a slightly exaggerated statement: that logistics is all of war-making, except shooting the guns, releasing the bombs, and firing the torpedoes."
- ADM Lynde D. McCormick, USN


"Because of my wartime experience, I am insistent on the point that logistics know-how must be maintained, that logistic is second to nothing in importance in warfare, that logistic training must be widespread and thorough..."
- VADM Robert B. Carney, USN

"Logistic considerations belong not only in the highest echelons of military planning during the process of preparation for war and for specific wartime operations, but may well become the controlling element with relation to timing and successful operation."
- VADM Oscar C. Badger, USN

"… in its relationship to strategy, logistics assumes the character of a dynamic force, without which the strategic conception is simply a paper plan."
- CDR C. Theo Vogelsang, USN


"Logistics is the stuff that if you don't have enough of, the war will not be won as soon as."
- General Nathaniel Green, Quartermaster, American Revolutionary Army

"Strategy and tactics provide the scheme for the conduct of military operations, logistics the means therefore."
- Lt. Col. George C. Thorpe, USMC


"Only a commander who understand logistics can push the military machine to the limits without risking total breakdown."
- Maj.Gen. Julian Thompson, Royal Marines

"There is nothing more common than to find considerations of supply affecting the strategic lines of a campaign and a war."
- Carl von Clausevitz

"In modern time it is a poorly qualified strategist or naval commander who is not equipped by training and experience to evaluate logistic factors or to superintend logistic operations."
- Duncan S. Ballantine, 1947


"The war has been variously termed a war of production and a war of machines. Whatever else it is, so far as the United States is concerned, it is a war of logistics."
- Fleet ADM Ernest J. King, in a 1946 report to the Secretary of the Navy


"A sound logistics plan is the foundation upon which a war operation should be based. If the necessary minimum of logistics support cannot be given to the combatant forces involved, the operation may fail, or at best be only partially successful."
- ADM Raymond A. Spruance


"The line between disorder and order lies in logistics…"
- Sun Tzu


"Leaders win through logistics. Vision, sure. Strategy, yes. But when you go to war, you need to have both toilet paper and bullets at the right place at the right time. In other words, you must win through superior logistics."
- Tom Peters - Rule #3: Leadership Is Confusing As Hell, Fast Company, March 2001

"Logistics sets the campaign's operational limits."
- Joint Pub 1: Joint Warfare of the Armed Forces of the United States

"Logistics comprises the means and arrangements which work out the plans of strategy and tactics. Strategy decides where to act; logistics brings the troops to this point."
- Jomini: Precis de l' Art de la Guerre. (1838)

"Behind every great leader there was an even greater logistician."
- M. Cox

"Logistics ... as vital to military success as daily food is to daily work."
- Capt. Alfred Thayer Mahan, Armaments and Arbitration, 1912

"The essence of flexibility is in the mind of the commander; the substance of flexibility is in logistics."
- RADM Henry Eccles, U.S. Navy

"My logisticians are a humorless lot ... they know if my campaign fails, they are the first ones I will slay."
- Alexander