Chapter Questions
To what extent have the seven principles of supply chain management remained current? What are some of the major changes that have occurred since they were first developed?
Which of the seven principles of SCM do you feel will be most critical to the success of supply chains in the future?
Provide an example supply chain issue or problem that you feel may be addressed by each of the key stages in the supply chain maturity model (i.e., descriptive; predictive; prescriptive; and cognitive).
Using the internet, identify 2 to 3 traditional retailers that have adopted one or many of the five keys strategies necessary for success in an omni-channel environment. How did they implement this strategy and what were the results?
Why is sustainability such a complex and challenging issue for organizations? How can they simplify these challenges from a supply chain perspective?
Distinguish between a value stream and a waste stream for reverse flows. Give examples of each.
What special challenges and opportunities are presented for reverse flows by globalization? What do you think is the biggest challenge and the greatest opportunity? Why?
Aside from the 3-D printing impacts on supply chains that are discussed in this chapter, what do you think are 2 to 3 additional example impacts that could have been mentioned?
How is the role of supply chain professionals evolving? What skills will managers need in the future to succeed in this profession?
What strategies and steps can organizations pursue to combat the SCM talent shortage?