Learnign Unit 1

Question 1

Define Supply Chain

Answer 1

A supply chain consits of all the parties involved indirectly and directly to meet customer request .
Elements include:

Question 2

Illustrate a Generic Supply Chain

Answer 2

1. Suppliers: Provide raw materials
2. Manufacturers: Transform materials into finished goods
3. Distributors: Store and transport products
4. Retailers: Sell products to consumers
5. Customers: End users who purchase the product.

Question 3

Explain the Concept of Supply Chain Management (SCM)

Answer 3

Supply Chain Management (SCM) is the coordination of all activities involved in the flow of goods and services to improve efficiency and customer satisfaction.

Question 4

Explain the Components and Elements of Supply Chain Management

Answer 4

1. Planning: Forecasting demand, setting supply chain strategies
2. Sourcing: Finding and managing suppliers
   3.Manufacturing: Production and assembly of goods
3. Delivery (Logistics): Warehousing, transportation, distribution
4. Returns (Reverse Logistics): Handling defective or excess products.

Question 5

Current Trends in Supply Chain Management

Answer 5

1. Digital Transformation: AI, automation, blockchain, and IoT for real-time tracking
2. Sustainability & Green Supply Chains: Eco-friendly sourcing, reducing carbon footprints
3. E-commerce Growth: Faster deliveries, online retail boom
4. Resilient Supply Chains: Reducing risks by diversifying suppliers and improving crisis management
5. Global vs. Local Sourcing: Companies balancing cost savings with supply chain stability.

Question 6

Describe the Benefits of Supply Chain Management

Answer 6

1. Cost Reduction: Lower operational expenses by optimizing procurement and inventory
2. Improved Efficiency: Streamlined logistics and faster delivery times
3. Better Supplier & Customer Relationships: Enhanced communication and collaboration
4. Competitive Advantage: Businesses with strong supply chains outperform competitors.

Question 7

Describe the Supply Chain Performance Drivers

Answer 7

1. Facilities: Warehouses, factories, and distribution centres
2. Inventory: Managing stock levels efficiently
3. Transportation: Choosing cost-effective shipping methods
4. Information: Using data and technology for decision-making
5. Sourcing: Selecting the right suppliers and maintaining relationships.

Question 8

Explain the Concept of Supply Chain Network Design

Answer 8

The Supply Chain Network Design (SCND) is how a company plans and organizes its supply chain structure to ensure everything works efficiently and meets customer needs.

Question 9

Key functions of SCM

Answer 9

Procurement: Selecting suppliers and Production Planning: Scheduling and managing inventory
Logistics: Transporting and distributing goods
Customer service: Ensuring timely deliveries and handling complaints

Question 10

Key decision in SCND

Answer 10

1. Location:Where to place factories, warehouses, and distribution centers
2. Number of suppliers and distribution prices:
3. Transportation Routes
4. Inventory Strategy:

Question 11

What is the objective of Michael Porter’s Value Chain Model?

Answer 11

To increase efficiency, reduce costs, and create more value for customers than competitors.

Question 12

What are the primary activities in Porter’s Value Chain?

Answer 12

• Inbound Logistics
• Operations
• Outbound Logistics
• Marketing & Sales
• Service

Question 13

What are the support activities in Porter’s Value Chain?

Answer 13

• Firm Infrastructure
• Human Resource Management
• Technology Development
• Procurement

Question 14

What does Firm Infrastructure encompass?

Answer 14

Management, finance, legal, and company policies.

Question 15

What is the focus of Human Resource Management?

Answer 15

Recruiting, training, and employee retention.

Question 16

What does Technology Development involve?

Answer 16

R&D, automation, and process improvements.

Question 17

What is the purpose of Procurement?

Answer 17

Sourcing materials and negotiating supplier contracts.

Question 18

Define Logistics Management.

Answer 18

Planning, implementing, and controlling the movement of goods, services, and information across the supply chain.

Question 19

What is a key component of Inbound Logistics?

Answer 19

Managing the flow of raw materials from suppliers to production facilities.

Question 20

What is an example of Inbound Logistics?

Answer 20

Toyota receives just-in-time (JIT) parts from global suppliers.

Question 21

What does Outbound Logistics entail?

Answer 21

Distribution of finished goods from factories to retailers/customers.

Question 22

What is an example of Outbound Logistics?

Answer 22

Amazon’s fulfillment centers use robotics for fast order processing.

Question 23

What is the purpose of Warehousing & Inventory Management?

Answer 23

Storing goods efficiently to reduce costs and prevent stockouts.

Question 24

What types of warehousing are mentioned?

Answer 24

• Distribution centers
• Cold storage
• Cross-docking

Question 25

What is an example of effective Warehousing?

Answer 25

Walmart’s automated warehouses optimize stock levels.

Question 26

What does Transportation Management involve?

Answer 26

Selecting transport modes: road, rail, air, sea.

Question 27

What is an example of Transportation Management?

Answer 27

DHL uses air freight for urgent shipments and sea freight for bulk orders.

Question 28

What is the significance of Supply Chain Visibility & Tracking?

Answer 28

Technology-driven real-time tracking improves efficiency, reduces delays, and enhances customer service.

Question 29

What is an example of Supply Chain Visibility?

Answer 29

UPS uses AI-powered logistics tracking for deliveries.

Question 30

What does Reverse Logistics handle?

Answer 30

Handling product returns, refurbishments, and recycling.

Question 31

What is an example of Reverse Logistics?

Answer 31

Apple’s recycling program for old iPhones.