Supply Chain Understanding And How The Consumer ✓ Solved
Supply Chainunderstanding Supply Chain And How The Consumer Can
Understanding supply chain and how the consumer can play a critical role in the supply chain is an important part of developing and implementing a strategy. There are many products and services today where the target customer is part of the supply chain. Using the module readings, Argosy University online library resources, and the Internet, respond to the following: Give an example of a product or service where the target customer is part of the supply chain. Describe the types of innovations or improvements that have come from involving the target customer in the supply chain. Describe the types of information technology mechanisms that have been used to involve the customer in the supply chain. Write your initial response in approximately 300 words. Apply APA standards to citation of sources.
Paper For Above Instructions
The concept of the supply chain involves a network of organizations, people, activities, information, and resources that are involved in providing a product or service to a consumer. One illustrative example is the beauty industry, specifically companies like Mary Kay Cosmetics. Mary Kay relies heavily on its customers to play an active role in its supply chain. Representatives not only sell products but also gather feedback and preferences directly from consumers, which helps in the development of new products and improvements to existing ones.
Involving the target customer in the supply chain has led to several innovations and improvements. For instance, Mary Kay uses customer feedback to tailor its product offerings, ensuring they meet the specific needs and desires of consumers. This customer-centric approach leads to higher satisfaction rates, fostering brand loyalty. Additionally, it enables the company to respond quickly to market trends, thereby gaining a competitive advantage. Moreover, customization options have increased, allowing customers to participate actively in the product design process. Such innovations enhance the perceived value of the products and encourage repeat purchases.
Information technology mechanisms play a pivotal role in engaging customers within the supply chain. E-commerce platforms, social media, and mobile applications are significant tools that facilitate this interaction. For instance, online platforms not only provide a convenient way for consumers to purchase products but also allow them to share their reviews and experiences. This feedback is invaluable for companies looking to improve their products and services. Furthermore, companies can utilize data analytics to identify customer preferences, which can inform inventory management and product development strategies.
Another notable example is Craig’s List, which allows consumers to directly list goods and services, thereby acting as both buyers and sellers. This model of market consumption encourages community engagement and facilitates local trade. The use of customer reviews and ratings on such platforms also influences supply chain decisions, as companies can gauge sentiment and adjust their offerings accordingly. Overall, technology enables a more dynamic consumer involvement in the supply chain, fostering a two-way relationship that can lead to significant improvements and innovations.
In summary, involving the target customer in the supply chain is crucial for companies looking to innovate and excel in today's market. Companies like Mary Kay Cosmetics exemplify how consumer feedback can spark improvements and tailor offerings to meet market needs. Moreover, leveraging information technology mechanisms facilitates this interaction, creating an efficient and responsive supply chain. Adapting to consumer preferences not only leads to increased customer satisfaction but also constructs a resilient supply chain capable of withstanding market changes.