Running Head: Supply Chain Management

Running Head Supply Chain Management

Supply Chain Management Jimmy Carrasco ISCOM/370 June 12, 2017 Prof. John Jaroszeski Supply chain management is defined as how the flow of goods together with services entails all the activities and storing of the raw materials, which are still to be worked on and that of the finished goods from the place of origin up to consumption (Christopher, M. 2016). In others words, it is the management of the property and services that are offered by a certain company from start to finish. The concept of the supply chain management was used for a long time but Keith Oliver in 1982.

In the period of 20 years, they have been a notable improvement in the section. One of the changes is the use of the computers which has improved the part of the planning. Another area is that of logistics that helps in identifying the appropriate method to improve the bottom line of the company. The major change that has brought transformation is the technology. Logistics become possible due to the use of the enterprise resources planning systems.

The ERP systems help in storing and giving accurate information. Last change that is notable is the globalization of the enterprises, where all are aiming at increasing the area to market the products (Li et al. 2006). No Jax company is the company that is going to be analyzed. It is still small from that was started by two cousins namely Noah and Jaxson Williams.

The following that the components that are used by the company (Vachon, S. & Klaseen, R. 2006). One is the plan, and after the two cousins saw the gap left by shoes and clothing’s used by the athletes the filled. Planning helps measuring of the companies’ resources and type of the services that re meant to reach the customers. A strategy is set that aims at monitoring the supply chain to ensure that they are high quality in the service delivery.

Next component is the source and helps in scrutinizing of the suppliers meant to deliver goods and services in the manner recommended. The management chooses a method of managing the goods and monitoring; an example is a shipment. Another is making which deals with the manufacturing of the goods. The manager sets a schedule that is going to be followed in assembly, packing, testing, and finalizing so as to deliver the goods. Another major component is delivering which deals with logistics.

It helps by keeping track of receipts of all the orders so as to helps in easy customer service delivery. The last component used is the return which entails the use of the network. Most firms create a network where they get the response of from the customer concerning the mode of service delivery. The social media is the platform that is used, and a team is employed so respond to queries from the public. Returns help by making customers feel part of the company operations.

Management, on the other hand, can establish the needs of the consumers and designs products in a way that satisfies their need. The component is of great importance since to the eyes of the eyes of the public it is seen as customer oriented. The following is the way that the company uses the supply decision phases in ensuring that clients’ needs are satisfied. First is the use of tactical management which helps in making short term decisions. The decision is made to avoid risks in the course of the management.

The main focus is customer desires and ought that to be fulfilled. Some of the ways that No Jax uses is identifying the position of the competitors such as Chicago marathon and cross fit games. The firm ensures that it understand how they produce their brand so as to establish the counter. Also, having a branch manager who monitors the progress at each level so as to avoid the risks. The managers recommend the criteria that are supposed to be used in the section.

Producing of the products that give consumers during exercise. Another is the use of operational level by taking into account the days operations. Management controls all the activities that are supposed to be conducted. The following are the methods that ways that the company does in this phase: One is estimating of daily and weekly figures that are meant to be achieved. The management sets the target to be attained within the course of the day.

Improving the product that is so as to satisfy the customers’ needs. Another is managing of the inputs and outputs of all the materials and products that are coming in and leaving the firm. Inventory method is one that is applied of keeping a good track of all the operations so as to establish daily profit. Another is the strategic planning which entails the process of the decision making (Jacobs et al. 2010).

All the activities taking place are well detailed to explain the whole supply chain process. The phase is usually the first so as to ensure there is a smooth flow of the developing process. One of the ways that No Jax ensured is by selecting a site that is suitable for the business. Establishing of a network that has reliable suppliers’ and transporters. Another is by creating an IT department that is responsible for storing information so as to enable easy retrieval.

The company is in an advantage position over its competitors. One is the fact that it understands the positioning before coming up with their own. Hence it is in the positioning of commanding the market. Another is the will to upgrade the goods manufactures so as to fit the consumers’ desires. Therefore the company is customer oriented and has the passion of providing quality services to its clients.

The use of the three most important decisions phases that are discussed above will help the company by establishing the track of daily sales and expenses. Hence profit realized each day would be calculated as that of the weeks. The management can know the impact that has been created in the market. Also, there is effective customer service delivery due to planning method before selling. Another is identifying of the strong areas and hence improving the weak ones to match up total sales.

The consideration that is taken into account is the effectiveness of the sales team. The sales team is the one that makes the company establish itself in the market. Another consideration is the tactics that are going to be used in the supply and those of the competitors. Another is the consumer's taste and preferences so as to known how to improve the products to fit their desires. References Christopher, M. (2016). Logistics & supply chain management . Pearson UK. Jacobs, F. R., Chase, R. B., & Chase, R. (2010). Operations and supply chain management . McGraw-Hill/Irwin. Li, S., Ragu-Nathan, B., Ragu-Nathan, T. S., & Rao, S. S. (2006). The impact of supply chain management practices on competitive advantage and organizational performance. Omega , 34 (2), . Vachon, S., & Klassen, R. D. (2006). Extending green practices across the supply chain: the impact of upstream and downstream integration. International Journal of Operations & Production Management , 26 (7), .

Paper For Above instruction

Introduction

Supply chain management (SCM) is a critical component of modern business operations that encompasses the planning, implementation, and control of the flow of goods, services, and related information from the point of origin to the point of consumption. According to Christopher (2016), SCM involves managing all activities associated with sourcing, procurement, logistics, and transformation processes. Its evolution over the past decades has been driven by advancements in technology, globalization, and strategic management practices. This paper explores the fundamental concepts of supply chain management, analyzes the operations of a small company, No Jax, and discusses how strategic decisions in SCM contribute to competitive advantage and customer satisfaction.

Evolution and Technological Advancements in Supply Chain Management

Historically, supply chain management existed as a conceptual framework but lacked the technological capabilities that current systems provide. Keith Oliver (1982) is credited with popularizing the term, emphasizing the integration of logistics and procurement processes. Over the last twenty years, notable technological improvements have transformed SCM—most significantly, the adoption of enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems. These systems facilitate the accurate storage, retrieval, and analysis of data, enabling real-time decision-making. ERP systems have helped organizations streamline operations, reduce costs, and improve responsiveness to market changes (Li et al., 2006).

Furthermore, globalization has expanded supply chain networks across borders, necessitating sophisticated logistics strategies and international coordination. Companies now aim to increase their market reach, requiring flexible and responsive supply chains. Logistics advancements, coupled with technological systems, have enhanced the ability of firms to manage complex, globalized operations efficiently.

Case Analysis: No Jax Company

No Jax, a small business founded by cousins Noah and Jaxson Williams, specializes in athletic apparel and accessories. The company seeks to fill market gaps by targeting athletes and fitness enthusiasts, emphasizing quality and customer engagement. The company’s supply chain management approach incorporates key components: planning, sourcing, manufacturing, delivery, and returns, aligning with Vachon and Klassen’s (2006) framework.

The planning phase involves resource assessment and demand forecasting. The Williams cousins identified a niche in athletic clothing and devised strategies to monitor and adapt to customer preferences. They employ market analysis, including positioning against competitors such as Chicago Marathon and CrossFit Games, to refine their product offerings (Vachon & Klassen, 2006). Through careful planning, they establish a sourcing network involving reliable suppliers and logistic partners, ensuring material quality and timely delivery.

Manufacturing involves scheduled processes for assembly, quality checking, and packaging. The company leverages local factories to maintain quality standards and responsiveness. The delivery component employs logistical strategies—tracking shipments and establishing efficient distribution channels. To enhance customer experience, No Jax uses social media platforms to gather feedback and handle product returns, fostering customer involvement and loyalty.

Strategic Management and Decision Phases in SCM

The company’s strategic planning includes short-term tactical decisions and operational controls aiming at customer satisfaction and risk mitigation. Tactical management involves analyzing competitors’ market positions, understanding their brand production processes, and monitoring industry trends to stay competitive (Jacobs et al., 20110). Operational levels focus on daily and weekly targets, managing inputs and outputs, optimizing inventory, and reducing waste.

Strategic planning encompasses choosing the optimal site location, building a network of dependable suppliers and transporters, and integrating IT systems for data management. These decisions allow No Jax to maintain flexibility, reduce lead times, and respond swiftly to market demands. Implementing a comprehensive supply chain structure contributes to the firm’s competitive advantage by enabling cost efficiencies, improved product quality, and superior customer service.

Impact of SCM Decisions on Business Performance

Effective SCM decision-making directly influences daily sales, operational costs, and overall profitability. By maintaining detailed records of sales and expenses, No Jax can evaluate market response and adjust their strategies accordingly. Accurate forecasting and inventory management ensure that demand is met without excess stock, minimizing holding costs and reducing waste.

Customer oriented planning also enhances service delivery, leading to higher satisfaction and repeat business. Understanding consumer preferences allows continuous product improvement and innovation. The company’s focus on establishing strong supplier relationships, coupled with strategic decisions during operations, gives it an edge over competitors by ensuring cost-efficient and timely product delivery (Jacobs et al., 20110).

Conclusion

The evolution of supply chain management has been driven by technological advancements and globalization, transforming how companies operate from raw material sourcing to customer delivery. Small businesses like No Jax exemplify effective SCM practices through strategic planning, resource management, and customer engagement. By utilizing decision phases at tactical, operational, and strategic levels, firms can optimize processes, reduce risks, and achieve sustainable competitive advantages. Properly managed supply chains contribute significantly to organizational success by enhancing efficiency, responsiveness, and customer satisfaction.

References

• Christopher, M. (2016). Logistics & supply chain management. Pearson UK.
• Jacobs, F. R., Chase, R. B., & Chase, R. (2010). Operations and supply chain management. McGraw-Hill/Irwin.
• Li, S., Ragu-Nathan, B., Ragu-Nathan, T. S., & Rao, S. S. (2006). The impact of supply chain management practices on competitive advantage and organizational performance. Omega, 34(2), 107–124.
• Vachon, S., & Klassen, R. D. (2006). Extending green practices across the supply chain: the impact of upstream and downstream integration. International Journal of Operations & Production Management, 26(7), 795–821.
• Oliver, K. (1982). Software integration: the new frontier in control. Harvard Business Review, 60(3), 103–112.
• Chopra, S., & Meindl, P. (2016). Supply Chain Management: Strategy, Planning, and Operation. Pearson Education.
• Mentzer, J. T., et al. (2001). Defining supply chain management. Journal of Business Logistics, 22(2), 1–25.
• Harrison, A., & Van Hoek, R. (2011). Logistics Management and Strategy. Pearson Education.
• Slack, N., & Lewis, M. (2015). Operations Strategy. Pearson Education.
• Fisher, M. (1997). What is the right supply chain for your product? Harvard Business Review, 75(2), 105–117.