1. (a) Write a brief policy statement that presents a position on the need for utilizing more diverse suppliers.
(b) Companies such as Wal-Mart and IBM are enforcing environmental performance in their supply base. What do you suppose is the motivation for doing so? How does this decision impact the brand of these and other companies?
(c) Consider the elements of the code of conduct developed by Caterpillar in Sourcing Snapshot: Caterpillar’s Code of Conduct. What are some specific examples of purchasing behavior that would violate elements of this code of conduct?
2. (a) Discuss why the involvement of external suppliers can positively affect a team’s effort
(b) What is the difference between a gray box and a black box approach to early supplier involvement? Under what circumstances might each approach be appropriate?
(c) What are the impacts of increasing worldwide risks on supply management and the need to work closely with other functions and suppliers? Why?