The nature of competitive advantage in supply chain management

Defining supply chain structures and processes

Managing quality, cost, and delivery in complex supply chain structures

Optimising and managing effective distribution channels

Developing the purchasing function to establish a competitive procurement strategy

Managing supplier relationships and expectations

The ability to resolve issues and maintain customer satisfaction

International Supply Chain Management (ISCM)

The framework for performance measurement on supply chain

Innovative SCM technology tools

Blockchain technology for sustainable supply chain management

Reverse supply chain management (SCM)

Contemporary context and growth risk management in ISCM.

Implications of global logistics and exchange rate risk

Assessing the implications of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) in global supply chain management

Future developments in SCM

Element 1: The initial assessment is a 1-hour in-class test administered in Week 6, comprising a mix of multiple choice and short answer questions, weighted at 30% of the overall module mark, and assesses LO1 and LO2.

Element 2: The individual assignment weighted at 70% of the overall module mark and assessing all LOs 1-3 will focus on a response to a contemporary global supply chain challenge.

Tutor led sessions will follow a general pattern of introduction of a topic and provision of frameworks and models for student learning, followed by application by students to appropriate data or case study materials. Students will be expected to perform set exercises, these will include the analysis, discussion and presentation of case-based work both individually and as part of a learning group. Formative assessment will be provided throughout the module. Digital tools will be used to enhance learning. Students will be expected to obtain supplementary information from a number of paper or electronic sources as part of their preparation, as recommended by the tutor.

Module Learning Outcome

1. Recognise the role of contemporary practices in supply chain management as a key source of competitive advantage for global organisations.

2. Analyse the design of competitive supply chain architecture within the context of cultural, ethical, and technological evolution.

3.Evaluate future challenges in international supply chain management and their implications in sustaining competitive advantage.

VLE learning support material to be provided for independent /self-directed learning.

Module handbooks

Open Textbook Library

Selected contemporary problem/practice based case examples

https://www.scmdojo.com/supply-chain-blogs/

Mangan, J., Lalwani,¿C., and Calatayud A. (2020) Global Logistics and Supply Chain Management. 4th ed. ISBN: 978-1-119-70299-3.

Christopher, M. (2016) Logistics and Supply Chain Management, 5th ed. New Jersey: FinancialTimes/Pearson Education.

Chopra, S. and Meindl, P. (2015) Supply Chain Management: Strategy, Planning, and Operation, 6th (Global) ed. Boston: Pearson.

Hines, T. (2013) Supply Chain Strategies: Demand Driven and Customer Focused, Abingdon: Routledge.

Jacobs, F. R. (2013) Operations & Supply Chain Management, Maidenhead: McGraw Hill.

None

Effective and efficient global supply chain and logistics management drives profitable business operations. Relationship management, risk management, knowledge and information management, budget management, continuous improvement processes and supply chain integration all form part of this contemporary module.