MITIGATING SUPPLYCHAIN RISKS TO IMPROVE COMPETITIVENESS

With the increasing sophistication of supply chains, organizations are finding it difficult to attain a constant flow of supplies across all network and turning to some form of collaboration across different tiers. Sourcing has become the order of the day despite the logistical challenges involved. The outbreak of the war between Israel and Palestine, Ukraine and Russia has accelerated widespread increases in global commodity prices making it difficult for purchasers to attain their goals. The wars represent a unique shock that has a major impact on production, distribution and availability of materials. In order to ensure continued supply and$/$or delivery supply chains need to effectively coordinate and consolidate supply bases across different actors to mitigate shortages.

Required:

Q$.$I.

a$)$ Examine the impact of the wars on the sustainability and competitiveness of supply chains.

$(8$Marks$)$

b$)$ Describe the various strategies that a purchaser can adopt to ensure continuity of supplier despite the existence of disruptions in supply chains. $(8$ Marks$)$

c$)$ As a supply chain specialist, examine the influence of logistical issues on the delivery and$/$or distribution of supplies. $(9$Marks$)$

Total $25$ marks

Q$\mathrm{.}2.$

a$)$ With the outbreak of the war as a global crisis disrupting the supply chain, how would you adapt your sourcing strategy to mitigate such risks and ensure business continuity? $(8$ Marks$)$

b$)$ Discuss TWO short term and TWO long term strategies for minimizing supply chains disruptions globally $(8$ Marks$)$

c$)$ Examine the implication of strategic supplier management strategies in enhancing supply chain resilience and competitiveness

$(9$ Marks$)$

Total $25$marks

Q$.3.$

a$)$ Examine the effectiveness of rationalizing the supply base in minimizing supply shortages in supply chains. $(\backslash (\backslash$mathbf$\{8\}\backslash )$ Marks$)$

b$)$ How would undertaking supply chain research help in improving global competitiveness of markets for the goods and service

$(10$ Marks$)$

c$)$ Basing on your own assessment of the current situation globally, would you recommend organizations and$/$or supply chains to undertake supplier development programs? $(7$ Marks$)$

Total $25$marks