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Supply Chain Management Case Studies

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MSYS111-12B Possible Test Questions Sessions 1-9 * What is a supply chain? The interconnected businesses that convert raw materials into consumer products via the transfer of materials, information and cash. * Draw a hypothetical milk supply chain * What is supply chain management? The management of upstream and downstream suppliers working together to create high value products for consumers as efficiently as possible to the benefit of the whole supply chain. It operates on three different levels, Strategic, Tactical an Operational. At a strategic level, the decisions are made regarding long term objectives, company direction and distribution of resources, at a tactical level this revolves around functional decisions, …show more content…

* How is SCM like an orchestra LIKE practice makes perfect | timing is critical | goal for the common good, | everyone has expertise | Interdependent | audience only hears the end product UNLIKE co-location, SC is dispersed | Orch delivers output at same time | Orch has 1 clear leader setting tempo emergent property: music * Is it worth integrating supply chains? There are three levels of integration: Operational - streamlining day-to-day functions of SC processes including efficiency of inventory management and synchronised materials flow; Tactical, collaborative planning and forecasting and some levels of integrated software systems; and Strategic, a completely transparent SC where R&D, investment and mission alignment might be undertaken, they may even co-locate, this is a long term partnership based on shared risks and rewards. Integration creates value and experts agree all businesses can benefit from operational integration. The degree of Tactical or Strategic integration depends on several factors; The higher the level of integration, the more trust is required between businesses. There are commercial risks to consider including the sharing of intellectual property and erosion of commercial advantage. * How much supply chain integration is enough? As a high degree of risk is involved in Strategic integration, many companies choose to integrate at a tactical or operational level. Although the higher levels

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