Basics of Supply Chain Management

Problem: Finding solutions for outbound logistics functions in the competitive international market. Learning Objectives: What are the main competitive advantages? How to develop your outbound logistics functions? Things to consider when adapting to Chinese market.  Keywords: Cultural differences,  e-commerce,  speed,  equality,  outbound logistics functions, international trade  What are the main competitive advantages? Quality advantage is the most fundamental objective, it is the foundation for the others. It is also the most visible aspect of the whole supply chain. Symptoms of quality problems are, e.g. unavailability of a product, defects and late deliveries. Problems like these are visible to the end customer, and have a negative influence on them, and weakens the customer loyalty.  The speed advantage, some customers don’t want to wait, they are also prepared to pay extra to get their produc...

Observer’s Self study Memo Problem: What are the challenges of outsourcing? Learning Objectives: How to minimize the risk of thefts? (in supply chain) How to make a good outsourcing strategy? How does black market affect the supply chain? How to minimize the risk of thefts? (in supply chain) I don’t think training in self-defense for the drivers would help that much, since it seems like the thieves use more modern ways of stealing the cargo, e.g. by technology. The shippers should be extra careful when dealing with a new company that doesn’t have a track record or has been inactive for years. You should stay in contact with the police, and anti-cargo theft forces, so that you get to know the hot spots to avoid, regional trends and the latest way of theft. You should also research yourself where thefts are occurring regularly, and how to avoid those places while making your route. Communicate regularly with dispatchers and home offices. Use a strict ide...