Recognizing industry support for the term supply chain execution, the Logistics Execution Systems Association (LESA) has changed its name to the Supply Chain Execution Systems & Technologies Group, or "SCE Group." The name change was effective January 1.

A part of Material Handling Industry of America (MHIA), the SCE Group is an information resource for companies or individuals learning about or deploying supply chain execution systems. Its members are systems and technology suppliers.

Mike Ogle, managing director of SCE Group and MHIA's director of technical and engineering services, says the name fits the prevailing identity for this class of solutions. "The new name is more reflective of the scope of the group's activities and the way these solutions are referred to by the industry," says Ogle. "In addition, the 'technologies' part of the name highlights associated information-passing solutions, such as auto ID and pick-to-light, which are part of supply chain execution and are offered by some group members."

The group presents white papers, regional seminars and other educational material, says Ogle. The material has traditionally reflected a supply chain execution scope, he adds, taking in topics such as order fulfillment, warehouse management, event management, transportation management, and how these functions fit together.

Mike Dempsey, group chair and a senior vice president with supply chain execution solutions vendor RedPrairie, says the new identity is more inclusive of vendors whose solutions traditionally weren't logistics execution focused, but encompass supply chain execution. Adds Dempsey, "Including a greater totality of systems, services, and technology suppliers ultimately helps users because of the stronger representation to generate education and research."