They also focused on reducing delivery times from suppliers and factories as well as safety stocks. With fuel prices and interest rates increasing, businesses began to focus on transportation and inventory management. During the 1980s, three major changes occurred in supply chain management. First, manufacturers have focused on reducing operating costs through re-engineering cost structures. Second, they improve customer service rather than reducing costs. Third, improve the internal integration of logistics within enterprises. In the 1990s, companies entered into new agreements with existing partners and distribution channels. Manufacturers have started to realize the importance of external partnerships and focus on cooperation and communication within their own walls. During this decade of the 2000s, globalization has increased, which plays a big role in supply chain decisions. New RFID (radio frequency identification) technologies have emerged and have continually improved. Increasing global sourcing and cooperation on design development, demand planning have also