Understanding how much it costs a company to manage its supply chain is crucial for making smart business decisions. The article stresses the importance of knowing where a company stands within the supply chain and strategically. By calculating and showing the real costs involved, managers can see the value in tracking and controlling these expenses. Every company and decision-maker is part of a supply chain structure, impacted by external factors, and constantly making choices that affect costs. Strategic decisions about target markets and operational processes directly impact a company's current and future supply chain expenses.