Foundations of Supply Chain Management

This unit introduces foundational concepts, frameworks, and tools used in global logistics and supply chain management, including supply chain flows, models, and performance measurement. Students will learn to map processes, balance supply and demand, select transportation and returns strategies, and assess readiness for digital and ESG-driven improvements to prepare for more advanced tactical and operational units.

Learning Objectives

• Analyze core components, flows, and models of a supply chain and categorize key customers and segments for a provided business scenario.
• Apply the GSCF and APQC frameworks to map and synchronize supply chain functions, document business rules, and draft a basic network design for a case study.
• Demonstrate methods to balance supply and demand by creating a simple production plan, selecting appropriate modes of transportation, and outlining returns processes for given situations.
• Evaluate supply chain performance using process metrics, levels of analytics, Industry 4.0 readiness indicators, and ESG criteria, and recommend at least three actionable improvements to increase visibility and reduce disruption risk.