Case Assignment: Dell

Case Assignment: Dell

1. A “push” system is more of a traditional focus where the start of production is inventory based. The manufacturing is mass production. When products run low, more products are made. On the other hand, a “pull” strategy has more of a focus on customers, and the start of production is based on a customer’s order. Therefore, the manufacturing has mass customization. Dell’s manufacturing processes really started a trend in the “pull” system, unlike the typical “push” assembly line strategy that existed before. Dell’s strategy allows customers to not only make their product more personalized, but they also reduce the risk of holding inventory that quickly loses its value. Unlike the mass-production era, products are not made “generic” but rather made to order.

2. Order processing systems are systems where orders are entered into the supply chain and fulfilled. If the order processing system is not executed well, customers will not be satisfied. Therefore, they are more likely to return the product and much less likely to be a returning customer. Also, it is very costly, especially in a business like Dell where the products lose value quickly, to make mistakes and waste materials. Dell uses an electronic data interchange. Orders are made online and sent to the manufacturer’s warehouse. The product is then made to specifications and sent out to the customer. Management must monitor the flow of goods and the flow of information. With good management, mistakes can be corrected before the merchandise is shipped and the invoice is prepared.

3. There is such a high demand for supply chain managers today because their job is to increase efficiency. Companies with good supply chain management commonly have benefits like lower operating expenses, greater supply chain flexibility, improved customer service, higher revenues, and increased performance. At each level