CASE STUDY ANALYSIS $1$

Optimizing Supply Chain Management for MSB Electronics Ltd

MSB Electronics Ltd is a global electronics manufacturing company resident in Jamaica that

specializes in producing a wide range of consumer electronics products such as smartphones,

tablets, and smart home devices. The company's products are distributed globally through a

complex supply chain network. As a student of Supply Chain Management, you have been

tasked with analyzing and optimizing various aspects of MSB Electronics supply chain. MSB

Electronics Ltd is considering expanding its global presence by opening a new manufacturing

facility in either China or Brazil. Each country has its advantages and challenges in terms of

labour costs, transportation infrastructure, and market demand. MSB Electronics currently

sources certain electronic components from a single supplier. However, recent disruptions in the

supply of these components have led to production delays and increased costs. Additionally,

MSB Electronics often struggles with inventory management, leading to instances of excess

inventory or stockouts.

MSB Electronics has been using a centralized distribution network to deliver its products to

customers worldwide. However, the company has received feedback from customers in certain

regions about lengthy delivery times and high shipping costs.

a$)$ Discuss the key factors MSB Electronics Ltd should consider when making this supply

chain network design decision. Provide recommendations based on cost$,$ responsiveness, and

risk.

$(8$ marks$)$

b$)$ Describe how MSB Electronics can use demand forecasting techniques to optimize its

inventory levels.

$(6$ marks$)$

c$)$ Analyze the benefits and risks of single sourcing versus dual sourcing for critical

components.

$(4$ marks$)$

d$)$ Give one $(1)$ advantage and disadvantage of a centralized versus a decentralized distribution

network.

$(2$ marks$)$