MODULE:

SUPPLY CHAIN MANAGEMENT $2$

Total Marks:

$70$

QUESTION ONE

$[45]$

Apple's Supply Chain Strategy

Apple's supply chain is a complex and intricate system responsible for the manufacturing and distribution of its products. It is a global network of suppliers, manufacturers, and distributors who collaborate to ensure that Apple products are delivered to consumers quickly and effectively.

The beginning of Apple's supply chain is the procurement of basic materials. Apple works with global suppliers to acquire the necessary components to manufacture its products. These components are then transported to Apple's manufacturing facilities, where they are used to assemble finalized products.

Once products have been assembled, they are sent to Apple's distribution centers. The products are packaged and dispatched from this location to Apple's retail stores, its online store, and other retailers. Apple collaborates with third$-$party logistics providers to ensure timely and efficient delivery of products to customers.

Apple also employs a rigorous quality assurance procedure to ensure that all of its products satisfy the company's stringent requirements. This includes thorough inspections of the manufacturing process and testing of components and finished products

Questions:

$1\mathrm{.}1$ Provide an overview of Apple's supply chain strategy, including its key components, processes, and the overall structure.

$1\mathrm{.}2$ Explain Apple's inventory management practices. How does Apple optimize its inventory to reduce costs and maintain efficiency while ensuring product availability?

$1\mathrm{.}3$ Explore Apple's demand forecasting techniques. How do they predict consumer demand, and how accurate are their forecasting methods?

QUESTION TWO

$2\mathrm{.}1$ The logistical drivers of supply chain include information and pricing. How would you relate these to logistics financial flow?

$2\mathrm{.}2$ Price and quality are key factors in consumer buying decisions. Explain.