1. Explain the impact of a mismatch in supply and demand. What strategies can companies adopt to influence demand? Provide examples where possible. 2. One commonly discussed method to avoid the bullwhip effect is information sharing between members of the supply chain. In todays technology savvy world it is becoming easier to share information, but not all companies feel comfortable doing so. Discuss the role of trust in sharing information; you might include any international barriers to trust in your discussion. 3. Many managers mistake information processing for knowledge management. Differentiate the two, and provide examples. 4. Supply chain relationships have three dimensions: people, processes, and platforms. Which of these do you think is the most critical? In what way? 5. Outsourcing, as well as offshoring, is a hotly debated topic with pros and cons. Both, however, have a direct impact on a companys top and bottom line, and have become key components of defining how successful enterprises are run. State your position on the matter and back it up with at least two specific reasons. 6. Many people have heard or seen the Incoterm FOB. What are Incoterms? Look online to find listings of other Incoterms than FOB, describe at least one and how it might be used in commerce. 7. Although Congress established the Foreign-Trade Zones in 1934 to encourage U.S. firms to participate in global trade, it is still a viable tool today in continuing trade. 8. Can we truly secure the supply chain? If so, at what cost? How restrictive will it be? 9. There are four main types of risks: Supply risk, Operations risk, Demand risk, and Security risk. Provide an example of two of these risks, and what might be done to mitigate them.
