This module will cover the design, planning, execution, control, and monitoring of supply chain activities, such as supplier relationship, production, inventory, transportation and demand management. Strategic questions regarding efficiency versus responsiveness will be addressed with the objective of creating net value, building competitive strategies, leveraging worldwide logistics and synchronizing supply with demand. The module will equip students with appropriate methods that are adopted in practice.
The module will be given in two parts with indicative topics to include:
- An overview of logistic systems and supply chain management, the various activities involved, the main supply chain drivers, responsiveness vs. efficiency, pull versus push strategies and global supply chain management strategies.
- Appropriate techniques to enhance the efficiency and responsiveness of supply chain activities, including the distribution design and planning (e.g., where to locate facilities and how to transport goods), the inventory control (to guarantee high customer service levels) and the forecasting activity (to plan operations capacity levels).
Private study hours: 108
Total contact hours: 42
Total study hours: 150
Main assessment methods
Group presentation – 15-20 minutes (20%)
In-Course Test – 45 minutes (20%)
Individual Report (2000 words) (60%)
Reassessment methods
100% coursework.
See the library reading list for this module (Canterbury)
The intended subject specific learning outcomes.
On successfully completing the module students will be able to:
1 Understand the complexity and dynamics of the different logistics and supply chain management activities, by identifying, analysing and deconstructing problems and improvement opportunities;
2 Demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of the suitable quantitative and qualitative approaches used in logistics systems and supply chain and provide means of solving real-world problems;
3 Evidence critical understanding of how supply chain management theories and techniques can be applied in practice for competitive advantage.
The intended generic learning outcomes.
On successfully completing the module students will be able to:
1 Demonstrate analytical skills necessary for the analysis of problems and the identification of appropriate solutions;
2 Demonstrate integrative capability to negotiate and co-ordinate or eventually lead a team of multifunctional individuals;
3 Communicate effectively to a variety of audiences and/or using a variety of methods;
4 Use computer software such as Excel solver for modelling to systematically analyse the impact of each supply chain function decision on the overall performance.
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