1. Supply managers seek suppliers that have a strategic fit and positively impact the organization’s bottom line; however, there are a number of other important benefits to the organizations. List at least five benefits, and briefly explain how they impact the organization’s success.
2. The supply process offers many opportunities for adding value. Where do we find the greatest opportunity to impact to the overall cost and design of a product? At what stage does this occur at in the product’s lifecycle, who can be involved, and what is the usual or expected outcome?
3. Traditional analysis has looked at make vs. buy alternatives, but recently firms have begun to consider partnerships or strategic alliances as a third alternative. Explain the key strengths of each approach, and what considerations a firm should have for choosing each alternative.
4. Procurement is responsible for sourcing goods and services for the organization. While doing so, their obligation to the company is to make the best decision. Quality becomes an order qualifier so pricing is only second to quality. So what is a buyer looking for in terms of “quality” when they are making a sourcing decision?