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Supply Chain Case Study

Student’s Name:
Institution Affiliation:
Course:
Instructor:
Date:
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Task 1: The Case Study (25 marks)

Describe the case study you have developed in detail. Clearly detail the supply chain

structure that is the focus of this case study and is to be investigated.

'Supply chain rivalry' is becoming a reality. It is fundamentally different from the prior

concept of competition because an organization can no longer compete as an isolated and

autonomous entity against other similarly ‘stand-alone' entities. When it comes to achieving these

objectives, businesses need to establish value delivery methods that are more sensitive to incredibly

quickly markets, as well as more consistent and dependable in delivering that value." The idea that

no firm is an island is one of the most essential aspects of today's business difficulties. Keeping up

with the competition requires a constant effort to integrate with other supply chain operators

(Saetta, & Caldarelli, 2020). Relationships of high and low engagement characterize this

integration. Virtual or systems have been developed is possible in this case (Dyer, 2020). We're

talking about logistics and network or collaboration solutions in the first scenario. With regard to

the second problem, hierarchical solutions are examined. Much of today’s modern development

seems to be focused on core capabilities and the acquisition of additional services or commodities

rather than the creation of such goods or services in-house. As a result, the importance of virtual or

internet connection is increasing.

Task 2. Solution Approach (50 marks)

When it comes to a supply chain, there are various performance indicators that must be

taken into consideration, and in most situations, these measurements are in conflict. Consumers’

purchase decision making is more complicated than a multiobjective issue because of these various

performance measurements. An important goal of this research is to find a method for dealing with

procurement (SCM) issues in an optimisation (MOO) context that is based on Pareto principles and
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to employ understanding extraction method to retrieve useful information from Feasible solutions.

Extraction of knowledge implies detecting hidden connections across Pareto solutions, identifying

their general qualities and attributes, and uncovering patterns hidden in the Weighted sum database

in order to enhancing the effectiveness in their judgement (Lawrence et al. 2020). An entirely new

simulation-optimization methodology is proposed in this thesis that relies on system dynamics (SD)

and cross search engine algorithms to find optimal solutions.

Case studies 1 and 2 of the SD-SBO-innovation technique are focused on well-known

scientific supply chain challenges, whereas case study 3 depicts a MOO of an internalization

process from a real-world company There is a so-called inventory tracking challenge, which relates

to the difficulty of ensuring that the stock or system is optimally managed to satisfy particular

system goals, such as managers aiming to keep their stock level as low as possible while yet

delivering 100% service levels. A four-tiered supply chain model based on lager manufacturing and

distribution was established at the MIT Lincoln School of Business in the 1960s (Sterman, 1989).

The main goal is to satisfy customer demand while lowering costs and backlog rates. The

unpredictability is also shown in the game. Using MOO and comment assessment, a single supply

chain individual's stock control model is examined to determine the best balance between a

sufficient supply line, enough asset covering, and meeting the customer demand.

A better knowledge of the phenomena being examined may be gained by merging analysis

and qualitative investigation into cross techniques, according to Johnson et al. (2007).

Fundamentally, this thesis follows Nunamaker et al. (1990)'s multi-methodological methodology,


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which has four primary key components: observation, theory formulation, testing and system

construction.

As seen in Figure 1.2, a thorough examination (monitoring) of the current supply chain

MOO methods is carried out in the early stages of this task. As a result of the findings of this

research, new concepts were produced (theory building). According to Nunamaker et al. (1990),

future researcher and hypotheses might well be derived from the concept construction process,

which can also help design and develop of experimentation and conduct procedures. As a result of

the theory building activity, need to be developed, and relevant case studies need to be selected.

Because it focuses on testing ideas via case studies, the experimental activity serves to connect

theoretical with observation-based learning (Nunamaker et al., 1990). As an alternative, information

system leverages new and/or existing technical instruments and software in an effort to evaluate

theoretical assumptions, ideas, and hypotheses, and determine whether or not they can be applied to

real-world situations.

system dynamics

This study's supply chain model technique based on simulation model (SD), which is a

strategy built on modelling feedback mechanisms and delays to understanding a system's nonlinear

response. As a result, an SD model may be used to visually display and analyze the relationships
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and their emergence consequences that determine the nonlinear response of the researched system

or process. Users may adopt a causal perspective of reality and utilize quantitative methods to

analyze the characteristics of the phenomenon and its reaction to different policies when using SD

modeling. , SD is a rigorous method for objectively describing and exploring supply chain

operations, knowledge, approaches, and organisational units in the context of the supply chain

network. It also makes it easier to model, innovate, and analyze both cognitive and affective

components of supply chain operation and implementation, since it highlights the dynamic

characteristics of the project is developed through the conjunction of feedback effects, without

requiring detailed information or essential component. From the system's nonlinear structure, SD

models are able to develop new behaviours that might not be detected in the current moment, but

may be seen later on (Bhushi and Javalagi, 2004). There are several independent entities that make

up the supply chain, which is defined by an inventory and flow design for purchase, storage, and

conversion of raw materials into finished products, as well as the decisions rules that control these

flows.

SD is so well for modeling and evaluating supply chains because of the current movements

of knowledge, equipment, orders, currency, and other things throughout the supply chain. Stocks,

flows, and comments are the three basic components of SD, where investments are collection that

represent the state of the network, and the composition of the stock is only modified by its inflow or

outflow. SD is built on these two building components. The ratio of different model case of

difficulties the flows and, as a result, the stocks, while the ratio has no effect on the flow.

Appropriate actions done by a system or an independent decision maker in order to modify a

variable used in this study toward its real or intended values are represented by feedback effects.
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Task 3. Presenting Results (25 marks) Critically analyse the proposed models and

discuss the results obtained. Present your conclusions and give recommendations for the

future research.

The primary goal of this study was to discover the elements and processes that are often

related with successful and cost-effective public engagement in research. Chapter 8's updated theory

of public engagement in research, while acknowledging its limits, we feel we have essentially

accomplished this goal. Using eight different case studies, we've established and evaluated this

model of public participation in research; this has revealed significant contextual aspects, such as PI

leadership, that had not historically been predominant. We've figured out how this crucial contextual

aspect affects essential public engagement processes, such as the selection of a senior leader, the

distribution of resources, and the encouragement of collaborations with other researchers. These

procedures then lead to particular results in increasing the quality of studies, especially recruiting

tactics and resources and data collecting instruments and procedures. etc.. We've discovered a

"virtuous loop" in which positive feedback on study partners' contributions boosts their self-esteem

and drives them to keep contributing. Although we didn't look at the expense of alternative public

engagement methods, as described in Chapter 7 of our initial proposal, we did cost the various sorts

of community input. Many research initiatives undervalue public participation, a critical conclusion.

It would be good to conduct study to create methods and do a complete cost–benefit

evaluation of public engagement in research. Despite the difficulties of conducting long-term

research, it would be very beneficial to investigate the influence of public engagement on

investigational volunteer attraction and retention. Research participants who have had varied or bad

encounters would be less willing to engage in studies of participating in the research like ours if

their experiences and viewpoints are documented quantitatively. A similar line of inquiry may delve

further into the (very uncommon) perspectives of underrepresented and understudied populations

who are part in studies. In order to better understand the value data analysis relationships and

investigators place on reimbursement and how effective it is in increasing public participation in


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and impact on investigation, it would be beneficial to conduct additional research. Remember,

however, that review is not a major impetus for those of us who are seeking to improve our

neighborhoods. When we pose questions, confer with others, make judgements based on responses,

and then utilize those decisions to better our work, we are always assessing the value of our work.

This style of informal assessment may be sufficient so when stakes are modest. There are certain

situations when the stakes are high, such as when a significant quantity of cash is at stake, or when

a large number of individuals are at risk, in which formal review methods may create meaning.

Task 1: Highlight the critical issues within this case study (for example, high inventory

level, low customer service level, high transport cost, inappropriate use of performance

measures, and so on).

The purpose of this research was to analyse the influence of inventory management

practices on the profitability and business outcomes of businesses. In order to evaluate the links and

hypotheses suggested in the conceptual framework, quantitative approach was used to gather data

from 188 micro and small companies (MSEs) working in the manufacturing industries (SEM).

According to the findings, better inventory management practices may boost a company's

competitive edge and productivity. Another way in which competitive advantage may positively

affect an organization's results is via increased productivity (Saetta, & Caldarelli, 2020).

Consequently, it is highly suggested that government leaders and other interested parties who assist

MSEs work to provide the training and resources needed to promote MSE supply chain practices

and thus increase their competitiveness in the market as an organization. This includes universities

and other educational institutions. That would increase their contributions to the nation's economic

development. It is important to keep in mind that the findings of this research cannot be generalized

to big and medium-sized businesses or the wider economy, since the emphasis is only on the

industrial sector of MSEs (Alamerew, & Brissaud, 2020).

Logistics quality service concept in multimodal logistics networks. It is predicated on the

supply chain's total extent. When it comes to customer service, supply chain components have
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traditionally tried to achieve their position in the entire customer experience provided to end-users.

In contrast, an increasing tendency is to recognize "their responsibility with not only the regard to

trade deals but also from the final customers and also at the point at which logistics customer care in

the supply chain works as communications vehicles" (Dugosz, 2010) in the production process.

This is complicated by the fact that many of the enterprises in the supply chain play several roles.

As consumers of the previous supply chain business, they subsequently provide the next supply

chain organization with their products. As a consequence, businesses are making long-term plans

with the customer in mind. Ultimately, the client determines whether the whole supply chain is

worth the effort (Dugosz, 2010). Customer purchases provide the justification for the supply chain's

architecture.

In a down economy, this idea becomes even more crucial. This may make logistics more

difficult for everyone involved in the chain of distribution. Cradle-to-grave customer care means

offering information, strategic direction, and a broad variety of competences from the start of the

supply chain all the way to the conclusion, which is what shippers now want from their freight

forwarders (Partridge, 2010). The word "customer service" encompasses a wide range of activities,

from product availability to post-purchase support (Gholizadeh, & Fazlollahtabar, 2020). Customer

service is the result of all logistical operations or supply chain processes, from a logistics viewpoint.

The company's earnings are determined by the logistics system's expenses and the income it

generates. Those earnings are heavily dependent on the company's customer service. Here, we'll

good customer service and its connection to freight forwarding, the interplay between the pricing

and supply of client satisfaction, supplied by the company, and the advantages of real worth

customer care to the entire farm's profit.

Identify the key performance measures that will be considered for the analysis (for

example, total distance travelled, number of products delivered, delivery on time and in full,

customer service, and so on).


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There are two primary research strategies: an inductive and an investigative method. When

adopting an inductive method, is empirical data gathered and utilized to detect patterns and to create

hypotheses. With a deductive method, the theories are examined first before generate new

hypotheses that are then evaluated on empirical investigations to validate the knowledge. The

theories are regarded broad in abstraction level while the empirical research are considered

specialized in high level of abstraction. In either technique the researcher travels from one level of

complexity to another. If the scientist instead goes back and forth from the abstractions during the

study, is it regarded a third strategy termed abduction. (Björklund & Paulsson, 2003). This project

utilizes an abductive method where both theoretical and empirical evidence is collected to develop a

knowledge of the issue scenario and potential solutions. The amount of electronic is then utilised

and applied to reallife scenarios in order to make inferences (Pohlmann, et al. 2020)

Hartman (2001) states that there are numerous approaches to acquire data and that the data

will be collected methodically. Bell (2006) further says that no scientific methodology consist of

just one way of collecting and that multiple viewpoints are vital in a comprehensive information

and knowledge collection. There may be one primary news source, and yet this resource must be

backed by different data sources. Further the breadth of the data gathering ought to be in line with

the criteria and capabilities 5 of the operation, in both time and budget aspect. When defining data,

some essential features may be utilized to define the sort of data: main vs supplementary and

qualitatively versus quantitate.


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Primary data is data obtained by the scientist first hands and for the purposes of the

investigation. An example of this type data is data obtained for another reason and then evaluated

further by the researchers who originally collected it or by the researchers themselves to get

additional insight. A literature review is one example of passive data collecting. Time and resources

are frequently taken into account when deciding what data to gather and how to utilize it in a

project. The utilization of both descriptive and inferential statistics is rather prevalent in research.

The authors (Saunders, Lewis, and Thornhill, 2016)

Specifically, this thesis examines Scania's Manufacturing & Logistics operations, including

the order department, production, and finishing area. As a result, the supply chain's sourcing stage is

left out of consideration. However, the supply chain will suffer as a result of sourcing. For example,

if Scania's suppliers are unable to supply components on schedule, the whole manufacturing system

would suffer. It's common to use the word "effectiveness" as a synonym for "doing the right things,"

such as focusing on the desired output and aligning it with strategic goals. (Sundqvist , Backlund, &

Chronéer, 2014). Efficiency is defined as the capacity of an organization to generate the desired

outcomes in accordance with its objectives, missions and ambitions. In other words, the goal is to

examine how the process's results influence society and the economy. An organization's

performance may be assessed from a broad viewpoint, which takes into account the contributions

made by all of its personnel.


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Task 2: Describe the theoretical aspects of the selected operational techniques in the

context of your case study. Detail how and why your selected technique is best suited to the

identified issues. Develop and solve the models to find possible solutions of the issues identified

earlier.

An broad and critical assessment of relevant literature is the goal of this chapter, which

seeks to build a coherent model for inventory control (SCM). A full description of SCM's history,

ideas, and models is provided in this chapter to explain its dynamics and intricacies (Brintrup, et al.

2020). There are several theoretical and methodological topics addressed in this chapter, which

represent over 30 years of study in the field. Additionally, the consequences for supply chain

managers have been discussed.

As businesses and teams expand, they will face problems. A team may have difficulties in

communicating, addressing business-critical issues, or obstacles related to the growth of the product

or the development of the product itself (Rowan, & Laffey, 2020). In a nutshell, your team should

have the ability to solve problems. By adopting the correct tactics, methodologies, games, and

creative activities, your organization could be more successful in the problem of discovering

effective answers to challenging challenges. Different companies, organizational stages, and sectors

need various approaches to issue resolution, so tailor your approach accordingly. The team aiming

to offer the solution is also likely to be different. It's important to find ways to engage your team

and enable them to come up with the most effective problem-solving procedures. To help you with

your daily work, we've compiled a list of practical problem-solving strategies

Describe the approach required to apply the selected techniques that will potentially

provide an improvement to the issues identified.

Patient experience initiatives in healthcare may be a demanding task because of the

requirement to synchronize practices and behaviours across many levels and departments of the

company. Even yet, it doesn't have to be an overwhelming task to develop, test, and finally

implement these improvements. The numerous clinicians students in medical quality assurance are
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already acquainted with recognized ideas and techniques to quality increase in health services (QI).

There are a few the models of performance improvement discussed in this section, as well as some

skills and methods that groups can use to confront various facets of the patient outcomes. This

segment of the guidance indicates that the principle of mesosystem be used to start concentrating

the QI procedure on the coding region of culpability for patient outcomes.

Task 3: A dedicated discussion on the results obtained is expected in this case. This

includes critical evaluation of the models developed in relation to the case study as well as the

solutions in relation to the performance measures identified earlier. It is useful to paste Arena

and Excel snapshots to your report. However, it is necessary to upload Arena and Excel files

along with your main coursework

As an introduction to metrics and quality management for organisations, this paper serves as

a starting point for discussion. There is a growing need to assess the success of programs, marketing

efforts, and employee performance in order to improve member value. An organisation's work is

aided by tools that assist direct and analyze the efforts of both paid and unpaid employees and

volunteers. The following is a look at some of the existing techniques for measuring effectiveness.

Performance assessment must include both senior executives and front-line employees who are

knowledgeable of the organization's long-term objectives. An ideal collection of metrics does not

exist, but businesses should begin with a "starting" list and add to it as they go. Rather than

collecting and analyzing data, the most difficult part of measuring is interpreting it so that you can

make informed judgments. All measuring requires education, which is why it's so important.

References
Rowan, N. J., & Laffey, J. G. (2020). Challenges and solutions for addressing critical shortage of

supply chain for personal and protective equipment (PPE) arising from Coronavirus disease

(COVID19) pandemic–Case study from the Republic of Ireland. Science of the Total

Environment, 725, 138532.


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Pohlmann, C. R., Scavarda, A. J., Alves, M. B., & Korzenowski, A. L. (2020). The role of the focal

company in sustainable development goals: A Brazilian food poultry supply chain case

study. Journal of Cleaner Production, 245, 118798.

Gholizadeh, H., & Fazlollahtabar, H. (2020). Robust optimization and modified genetic algorithm

for a closed loop green supply chain under uncertainty: Case study in melting

industry. Computers & Industrial Engineering, 147, 106653.

Brintrup, A., Pak, J., Ratiney, D., Pearce, T., Wichmann, P., Woodall, P., & McFarlane, D. (2020).

Supply chain data analytics for predicting supplier disruptions: a case study in complex asset

manufacturing. International Journal of Production Research, 58(11), 3330-3341.

Alamerew, Y. A., & Brissaud, D. (2020). Modelling reverse supply chain through system dynamics

for realizing the transition towards the circular economy: A case study on electric vehicle

batteries. Journal of Cleaner Production, 254, 120025.

Lawrence, J. M., Hossain, N. U. I., Jaradat, R., & Hamilton, M. (2020). Leveraging a Bayesian

network approach to model and analyze supplier vulnerability to severe weather risk: A case

study of the US pharmaceutical supply chain following Hurricane Maria. International

Journal of Disaster Risk Reduction, 49, 101607.

Saetta, S., & Caldarelli, V. (2020). How to increase the sustainability of the agri-food supply chain

through innovations in 4.0 perspective: A first case study analysis. Procedia

Manufacturing, 42, 333-336.

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