56 research outputs found
Introduction to Strategic Supply Chain Modelling
No full textThis chapter introduces the concept of supply chain management, its role in optimising business decision-making and the approaches to model supply chains that have been attempted to date. The increasing complexities generated by globalisation and the development of sophisticated communications have created the need for a more sophisticated approach to the choice of supply chain design by companies. The impact of this trend on supply chain model design and selection is discussed in preparation for the coming chapters
Conclusions – What Next for Strategic Supply Chain Modelling?
No full textThis chapter summarises the development and application of a strategic supply chain model based upon Fuzzy Delphi including its operation through a specific website. It also summarises the testing of the model through its practical application at the international automobile manufacturer Jaguar-Land Rover and through case studies at Toyota. Suggestions are made as to how the model could be taken further and in particular the application of game theory to strategic supply chain modelling. It concludes with a discussion of the further development of hybrid intelligent systems and their application to strategic supply chain modelling
The Evolution of Supply Chains and Logistics
No full textThe movement from physical distribution management through logistics to the current models of supply chains has taken place over a considerable period of time but it is only in recent decades that this has gained momentum and the models of supply chains have become increasingly sophisticated. This chapter looks at the origins of supply chain modelling and the situation that currently exists in particular focussing on the technological and globalisation influences. The forecasting and initiation of strategic supply chains are also discussed before looking at the central problem issue facing the development of a strategic supply chain model selection process for business
A Theoretical and Conceptual Framework for Strategic Supply Chains
No full textStrategic supply chain development is described in terms of a series of eras from its earliest beginnings in the 1940s through to the present day and then beyond. The future eras are based upon the current developments characterised by technological and global changes along with anticipated progress. Existing models of the supply chain are evaluated through each era to be used as the basis for the development of a new strategic supply chain model for business decision makers. Issues such as integration, globalisation, specialisation, hybridisation and automation in supply chains are considered and the concepts of agile and lean are introduced and discussed. The hybrid concept of Leagile is also considered in some depth
Testing and Implementing the Strategic Supply Chain Model
No full textIn this chapter the multi-dimensional strategic supply chain model is tested through its application to an international automobile manufacturing company in order to test its usefulness and practicality. In addition two case studies are used to test both push and pull supply chain structures. Testing was undertaken with Jaguar-Land Rover in the UK over a three-month period using a series of semi-structured interviews and data provided by the company
Data Collection for Strategic Supply Chain Modelling
No full textData collection is a fundamentally important element of any supply chain model and this chapter focuses on the decisions made about the data to collect, how this should be done and the implications for the reliability and accuracy of the modelling process. The rationale for adopting the Delphi approach is analysed followed by detailed discussion of the choice of participants, the number of rounds and the overall selection of Delphi type from the large number that are available
The Application of Fuzzy Delphi to Strategic Supply Chain Modelling
No full textA pilot Delphi study was carried out and its design is outlined here. The number, characteristics and responses to the Delphi rounds are then discussed. The processing of data at Rounds One and Two follows including the decisions made to adapt statements between each round. Consensus was reached after Round Two and details are provided of how this was achieved. The definition of consensus is discussed and its interpretation leading onto the definition of Fuzzy Delphi variable functions. The chapter concludes with a discussion of unforeseen obstacles and how these were overcome and finally the choice made of variables from the Fuzzy Delphi process
A Methodology for the Strategic Supply Chain Model
No full textDiscussion covers the various options available for the development of a strategic supply chain model which can accommodate the increasing demands placed upon it from globalisation and technological changes and which could be useful for businesses. The issues of research philosophy, research paradigm and research angle are all discussed in the context of their logical approach, the data methodologies they suggest and the way in which this data will be utilised. From this a discussion of the most appropriate methodology continues focussing upon the use of fuzzy Delphi models. The advantages and disadvantages of fuzzy Delphi are outlined before reaching conclusions about the best approach to be taken in the following chapters
Data Analysis for Strategic Supply Chain Management
No full textThe data generated through the Fuzzy Delphi is analysed using SPSS and Excel and a series of frequency tables focusing on categories of cost, JIT lean, distribution strategies, delivery strategies, product design and demand approach. The fuzzy rules which the process has generated are then analysed to produce the automated multi-dimensional model for strategic supply chain management utilising a specifically designed webpage which could be adopted by ant form of business. A substantial number of examples of the model and its application through the website are provided
Student-industry co-creation for innovation and skills development
Full text linkThe chapter aims to explore an ongoing approach towards enhancing student’ employability skills and building confidence. This approach draws on literature related to soft skills development and issues surrounding student confidence. It provides an innovative approach involving students, academic faculty and external organisations in a collaborative problem-solving activity known as ‘Innovation and Global Growth week’ (IGG).The outcome of this week of events is realigned with the factual needs of participating businesses and aims at generating creative ideas and innovation in order to address challenges faced by the participating businesses.This approach stimulates contextual skills and knowledge learning for students, faculty and the enterprises involved
- …
