Supply chain management (SCM).

Explain the importance of supply chain management (SCM). What supply chain issues have companies been dealing with in the last two years? How have companies used information systems and SCM to deal with supply chain problems?

Full Answer Section

SCM is important because it can help companies to improve their efficiency, reduce their costs, and improve their customer service. By managing their supply chains effectively, companies can ensure that they have the right products in the right place at the right time, at the lowest possible cost.

In the last two years, companies have been dealing with a number of supply chain issues, including:

  • The COVID-19 pandemic: The COVID-19 pandemic has caused disruptions to supply chains around the world. Factories have been closed, ports have been shut down, and transportation has been disrupted. This has led to shortages of goods and higher prices.
  • The war in Ukraine: The war in Ukraine has also caused disruptions to supply chains. Ukraine is a major producer of wheat and corn, and the war has disrupted the flow of these commodities. This has led to higher prices for food and other commodities.
  • The global chip shortage: The global chip shortage has affected a wide range of industries, including automotive, electronics, and healthcare. The shortage has been caused by a number of factors, including increased demand for chips and disruptions to the supply chain.
  • Natural disasters: Natural disasters, such as floods, hurricanes, and earthquakes, can also disrupt supply chains. These disasters can damage infrastructure, disrupt transportation, and destroy crops.

Companies have used information systems and SCM to deal with supply chain problems in a number of ways. These include:

  • Using real-time data to track inventory levels and demand.
  • Using predictive analytics to forecast demand and identify potential problems.
  • Using collaboration tools to coordinate with suppliers and partners.
  • Using automation to streamline processes and reduce errors.
  • Using blockchain technology to track the movement of goods.

By using information systems and SCM, companies can improve their visibility into their supply chains and make better decisions about how to manage them. This can help them to reduce costs, improve efficiency, and improve customer service.

Sample Answer

Supply chain management (SCM) is the management of the entire process of getting a product or service from the supplier to the customer. It includes all the activities involved in moving goods from where they are made to where they are consumed. These activities include:

  • Planning: This involves determining the demand for products and services, and developing plans to meet that demand.
  • Sourcing: This involves finding suppliers of raw materials and components, and negotiating contracts with them.
  • Manufacturing: This involves turning raw materials and components into finished products.
  • Warehousing: This involves storing finished products until they are needed.
  • Transportation: This involves moving finished products from the warehouse to the customer.
  • Inventory management: This involves keeping track of the amount of inventory on hand, and ensuring that there is enough to meet demand without having too much.
  • Customer service: This involves ensuring that customers receive their products on time and in good condition.