Supply Chain Strategy & Techy Term Work #3

1. Discuss how supply chain management must evolve to reflect the differing needs for each stage of international development.

First is performance cycle structure. International operations require longer performance cycle. Domestic is measured in days but International is measured in weeks or months. There are some reasons for longer order cycle to delivery cycle times like communication delays, ocean freight scheduling and customs clearance. Overall it requires higher asset commitment.

Second is transportation. International operations reduce complexity of operation and tracking of international shipping. Increased carrier privatization

Third is operational consideration. International trades require multiple languages for both product and documentation and require unique national accommodations.

Fourth is information systems integration. Systems integration typically lags the acquisition or merger used to make the enterprise global. This requires a substantial capital investment and requires two system types to be integrated, ERP system and global planning system. Very few firms have fully integrated global information systems or capability.

2. Discuss the supply chain operational considerations for operating in a global environment.

Supply chain operation in a global environment will have an increase cost and complexity. Compare to domestic operations, global operations have increased uncertainty and variability, decreased control and visibility. These are because of the distance between the manufacturer and the sale end is significantly increased. Also, longer lead-times and decreased market knowledge.

3. Describe some of the strategies that firms can use to overcome the challenges related to transportation infrastructure congestion.

First is no international strategy which means that firms are involved