|
Answer to #1
T
Answer to #2
Since services are simultaneously produced and consumed, they are much more perishable than goods. An example is when an airplane leaves the ground with vacant seats, the airline cannot recoup the money it lost on those empty seats.
Answer to #3
Enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems incorporate internal and external systems into a single unified solution that spans the enterprise. ERP systems includes the software that supports business functions and processes, computing hardware for hosting and executing software applications, and back-end network architecture for data communication across and within information systems.30 A centralized and shared database system links the business processes, allowing information to be entered once and made available to all users.
Though they can be quite expensive and challenging to implement, ERP systems are widely used. A primary appeal lies in the ability of ERP systems to update and share accurate information across business processes. ERP-linked processes typically include accounting and finance, planning, engineering, human resources, purchasing, production, inventory/materials management, order processing, and more. Primary benefits include: process automation, technology cost savings, improved visibility of sales, inventory, and receivables, standardization of processes, and regulatory compliance.31
Over time, the traditional separation of supply chain technologies from ERP systems has faded. First, the boundaries are blurring as supply chain tools need to share the information stored in an ERP system. Second, the major ERP systems vendors offer supply chain software that can be readily linked to the ERP system. Though these ERP vendor versions of WMS, TMS, and other tools may not be quite as robust as best-of-breed supply chain software, they do have the advantage of being a one-stop solution and offer common structure that reduces the installation time and effort.32
Answer to #4
FALSE
Answer to #5
F
The SSB is calculated by squaring the deviation of each group mean from the grand mean, multiplying by the number of items in the group, and then summing these scores.
Answer to #6
Goods are dominated by search and experience qualities, and services are mostly comprised of experience and credence qualities. There are multiple marketing implications caused by these differences. It is easier to price a good than a service (e.g., a pair of socks compared to consulting advice). Additionally, it is easier for customers to assess a goods purchase compared to a service purchase. This means marketers need to cue the client that the service is excellent.
Answer to #7
Supply chain software applications harness the computational power and communication abilities of an SCIS to help managers make timely, appropriate decisions. The primary SCM software categories include planning, execution, event management, and business intelligence.
Supply chain planning applications help organizations evaluate requirements for materials, capacity, and services so that effective fulfillment plans and schedules can be developed. The tools help managers gain accurate, detailed insight into issues that affect the development of supply chain processes. The solutions use complex algorithms, optimization techniques, and heuristics to solve supply chain objectives within the stated planning horizon.20
Use of execution tools is extensive due to their rapid ROI and positive impact on supply chain performance. Companies deploy a variety of execution software to implement their strategies and manage supply chain flows of product, information, and money. Effective integration of these tools supports data sharing and cross-chain visibility.
Supply chain event management tools collect data in real time from multiple sources across the network and convert them into information that gives managers a clear picture of how their supply chain is performing. The software allows companies to automate the monitoring of supply chain events as they occur on a day-to-day basis. When a problem or exception occurs, managers receive real-time notifications so that corrective action can be taken. Problems such as parts shortages, truck breakdowns, and network disruptions can be avoided or mitigated, saving time and money.
Business intelligence (BI) tools automate the analytical work and present the results in visual formats that are easier to understand.26 Relevant information becomes readily available to supply chain managers for informed planning and decision making.
In addition to the data collection and analysis capabilities, BI software supports self-service reporting, performance scorecarding versus goals, development of graphical dashboards, and activity monitoring in support of event management. These BI tools also provide access to data residing on multiple SCIS without the need for technology department involvement. Hence, cross-chain collaboration is supported.
Answer to #8
FALSE
Answer to #9
T
|
Quick Reply
