1. (a) Name three important factors why the top managers are recognizing the importance of purchasing and supply chain management.
(b) Briefly discuss each of the seven periods in the evolution of purchasing and supply management
(c) What do you forecast for the future? Why?
2. (a) List the areas typically considered within purchasing is span of control. Explain why it is important that purchasing have authority over each of these areas.
(b) Discuss the advantages of electronically transmitting and receiving purchasing documents between a buyer and seller.
(c) Why is purchasing becoming increasingly involved in the purchase of transportation services and other nontraditional purchasing areas?