by Janice Marquardt | Apr 28, 2026 | Creative Solutions
“AI can draft, or edit, but it can’t do both.” This is the best summary I’ve heard of large language models so far, and struck me as simple and profound. My brother uttered this phrase at a recent small family gathering, where we had gathered to celebrate my father’s...
by Janice Marquardt | Apr 21, 2026 | Creative Solutions, Supply Chain Career
I love the Iowa State Voorhees Supply Chain Conference, and not just because I’m an alumni. People who attend this one-day conference are there to learn, not just to rub elbows and eat good food (although the catering is very good). When I was primarily in corporate...
by Janice Marquardt | Feb 17, 2026 | Creative Solutions, e-Auctions, Processes
This week was the week of shifting sands. I’m not sure why this was the week, but multiple e-auctions I’ve been involved with had last-minute changes, unexpected challenges, and a bit of a scramble. This is a learning opportunity for how to deal with very specific...
by Janice Marquardt | Jan 6, 2026 | Creative Solutions, Org Chart
If you’re like many people, you came back from an extended holiday vacation this week and realized the Holiday Elves failed to magically clean your email inbox while you were gone. While some manage to achieve the coveted Inbox Zero over the holiday, most of us are...
by Janice Marquardt | Dec 23, 2025 | Creative Solutions, Definitions
In many households this time of year, ‘tis the season of decorated trees and wreaths; stockings and candles. Some homes receive the royal treatment: garlands up and down every staircase, fully coordinated trees in multiple rooms, and a perfectly arranged nativity...
by Janice Marquardt | Dec 16, 2025 | Creative Solutions, Processes
First, there was the procurement department. Six months later, someone said, “We should do a procurement transformation!” (probably). If you’ve been in or worked with a procurement department for any amount of time, you’ve likely been through a procurement...
