Once a clear answer to this question has been formulated, the supply manager must identify expected competency requirement necessary for future operations. competency requirements then are compared with existing core competencies to determine which ones need to be refined and which ones need to be supplemented with related competencies that must be developed to create a competitive advantage. Two researchers place these ideas in sharp focus when they say, "senior managers must conceive of their companies as a portfolio of core competencies rather than just as a portfolio of businesses and products." the products and the nature of the business flow from the core competencies.