EXCELLENCE IN LOGISTICS. We're all striving for that goal, though it can be difficult—and often downright frustrating—to achieve.

First off, what is excellence in logistics? A good definition is that excellence in this context means planning and executing the various activities associated with moving goods efficiently, at the lowest possible costs consistent with good service levels, in a way that advances your competitive position.

In every issue of Logistics Management, we strive to present readers with information that will move them toward excellence in logistics. Starting this month, in fact, we've added a regular department that focuses exclusively on that subject. It's simply called "Byrne on Excellence."

The Byrne in the title refers to Patrick Byrne, who heads the supply chain practice at Accenture. Recognized as one of the top consultants in this space, Pat has helped many organizations achieve logistics excellence. His column will speak to the strategies, tactics, and technology that lead to excellence in logistics. And while we're sad that Bill Copacino, our long-time Strategy columnist, is departing (Bill has moved up to head all consulting services at Accenture), we're happy to introduce readers to someone of Pat Byrne's caliber.

Excellence is addressed in this month's issue from several other perspectives as well.

For JCPenney, excellence is exemplified in its approach to supply chain security. The retailer has embarked on an aggressive program that includes participation in C-TPAT (Customs-Trade Partnership Against Terrorism), rigorous inspections of overseas suppliers, and close scrutiny of the security procedures of its logistics services providers. As our cover story reports, those efforts have paid off: Less than 1 percent of the company's containers are inspected—well below the industry average of 6 percent. That means JCPenney's inbound supply chain keeps flowing smoothly.

Excellence in logistics doesn't have to play out on a global scale, though. It can make a difference as nearby as your warehouse. Our story on forklift training outlines the different approaches to executing this critical activity. By selecting the one that's right for your particular situation, the experts say, you can achieve excellence in driver training. And this, in turn, translates to superior operating performance in the warehouse.

One of the best school mottos anywhere is Boston College's "Ever to Excel." (Okay, I'm an alumnus and a bit prejudiced.) Obviously, this motto is appropriate to an institution of higher learning. But I think it applies just as well to the logistics profession.

Francis J. Quinn, Editorial Director