OPPapers.com

Supply Chain Management

Table of Contents

Introduction 2
Supply Chain Strategy 2

The process of SCM 4

Benefits of SCM Strategy 5

Benefits of IT supported SCM 6

How to develop a SCM strategy 6

IT and Process Design 7

How to choose the most suitable IT support (SCM software) 11

References 17


Introduction:
Today, transforming raw materials into finished goods in a cost-effective way, while providing dependable delivery of those goods day after day, requires a clear understanding of supply chain. It also requires having control of a realistic plan and the ability to implement it.
Supply chain management is a relatively new field of study. Due to supply chain integration, logistic professionals are now occupying more influential positions on the organization charts of their respective companies. IT supported solutions will be the future trend for supply chain management.
Senior executives at leading companies view supply chains as critical drivers of shareholder value and competitive differentiation. Confirming that perspective, the research shows a strong connection between high-performance supply chains and financial success.
Leading companies incorporate supply chains into their business strategies and devote significant attention to designing integrated operating models. For example, Nokia's frequent and a very flexible and efficient global supply chain supports rapid product market innovations, which are major contributors to fast revenue and profit growth. In effect, Nokia has altered the playing field with rapid-response manufacturing, quick-ship logistics and a global supply web that links Nokia suppliers and plants; the company also supports vendor-managed inventory and collaborative planning.
Another example is Zara, a Spanish clothing manufacturer and retailer. The company's supply chain strategy: dictate industry standards for time to market, costs, order-fulfillment and customer...