The Arthur D. Little research study shows that many companies are not fully utilizing Supply Chain Excellence Practices, which can help reduce costs and optimize service. The Pull Principle, a widely underutilized method, can reduce cycle times and inventory. Only one-third of study participants had implemented a program to help suppliers improve their logistics performance. The Supply Chain Performance Excellence Index (SPE-Index) is used to measure the efficiency of a supply chain and compare a company's performance to best practices. Companies with a high SPE-Index rating have implemented Supply Chain Management Excellence Practices and have high levels of efficiency and service.