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supply chain management characteristics

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In 200 words, discuss each.

1. In discussing characteristics of efficient plants, Goodson, developer of rapid plant assessments, suggests that numerous forklifts are a sign of poor space utilization. What do you think is behind this observation?
2. Identify and discuss the most significant operations and supply management approach since 1960.
3. As a supplier, which factors about a buyer (your potential customer) would you consider to be important in setting up a long-term relationship?
4. Where do opportunities reside in improving supply chain operations, and how has VSM helped to reveal these?
5. What are the pros and cons of relocating a small or midsized manufacturing firm (that makes mature products) from the United States to Mexico in the post-NAFTA environment?
6. What motivations typically cause firms to initiate a facilities location or relocation project? Be specific.

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Supply chain management characteristics is examined.

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1. In discussing characteristics of efficient plants, suggests that numerous forklifts are a sign of poor space utilization. What do you think is behind this observation?

My observation is that this statement is inaccurate as there are many issues in research literature that cause poor space utilization, but I have yet to see any reference to possessing numerous forklifts as a cause for the poor utilization of space in warehouses. In contrast, other more important issues have been identified as consistently resulting in the poor utilization of warehouse space such as a lack of supervisors on the plant's floor to effectively monitor how operations involving the picking, packing, and shipping process are conducted by employees. In this sense forklifts that may be damaged and require servicing could cause problems in regard to taking up space as damaged forklifts that are not operating correctly hamper the efficiency of warehouse operations. In addition, possessing a poor warehouse layout can cause the organization to suffer from the poor utilization of plant space because it could result in a loss of productivity wherein employees are required to spend more time than necessary on forklifts to search and handle products, which can cause disruptions in the supply chain.

http://mhlnews.com/transportation-amp-distribution/7-deadly-sins-warehousing

2. Identify and discuss the most significant operations and supply management approach since 1960.

In regard to the most significant operations approach to emerge since 1960, I believe that Supply Chain Management is the most significant because it has the ability to impact all facets of the organizational process such as sourcing and procurement as well as logistics and shipping. This approach is vital for coordinating and collaborating with buyer's, partners, as well as other stakeholders who are critical for the success of the organization. Therefore, the use of (SCM) by organizations will facilitate the most effective organizational controls because the supply and demand managed throughout the entire supply route from the beginning of the supply chain until it has reached its destination.

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  • MS, Prairie View A&M University
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