When it comes to undertaking large M&A transactions, it seems that it is often better to be lucky than good, or in the right place at the right time.

The downturn presents unprecedented challenges, but also some bright opportunities, says Jim Hemerling, senior partner with the Boston Consulting Group. Hemerling is co-author (with Harold L. Sirkin and Arindam K. Bhattacharya) of Globality: Competing With Everyone From Everywhere for Everything (Business Plus, 2008).

CFOs and procurement pros alike are looking for ways to boost the function's contribution. A new model of procurement capabilities from The Hackett Group provides a road map to world-class performance.

With top-line prospects dimming, companies are taking another look at outsourcing their back office functions to cut costs and protect profitability. We asked Archstone Consulting principals Mark Schmeling, CFO advisory services practice leader, and Maureen Piche, business process outsourcing (BPO) practice leader, for their insights into the BPO option now.

Corporate responsibility programs are no longer just PR banter, but instead real tools for beefing up the bottom line.

Hal Sirkin, a senior partner with The Boston Consulting Group, examines the roles that finance professionals must play to help their companies compete globally.

Will your cash-strapped suppliers make it through the credit turmoil? Or will some tumble, opening gaps in your supply chain? It'll be procurement's job to find out.

Mary Rhinehart, CFO of Johns Manville, explains how finance needs to reach out to business partners and drive results.