Multi Telecom Networks $($MTN$)$ is a multinational company in Sudan that

provides wireless networking and telecommunications with operations in over

$100$ countries. MTN provides the infrastructure for mobile phone networks not

only to operate, but also to transfer data. With the vast growth in these

technologies, MTN has significantly expanded its operations.

Earlier this year MTN acquired a competitor, Voda phone Phone $($VODA$),$ which

had a higher market share for the provision of cloud computing. VODA had

adopted very contemporary approaches to management and had built a

reputation for being an innovative company. Last year, it also won a coveted

award for being one of the best employers to work for.

Consequently, there are a number ofseveral key differences between MTN$$s

approach to logistics management and VODA$$s$.$ MTN$$s globalized team has

adopted a structured approach to logistics management by organizing on the

basis ofbased on categories such as software, facilities, power supplies, and

switchgear. MTN has a hierarchical structure with five layers of management.

There is also a heavy emphasis on compliance with procedures.

However, VODA has adopted self$-$managed teams. Team members$$ work in a less

structured environment with the buyers getting the work done as required.

VODA$$s approach has been to encourage innovation with its suppliers. The key

contract award criteria for suppliers is typically on their degree of cultural fit with

VODA, rather than using more traditional methods such as ranking price and

quality.

VODA$$s buyers are a motivated team and are free to undertake relevant training

such as on technical aspects of cloud$-$based computing or on commercial areas

Maritime Training Institute Karachi, PakistanPage $3$

such as contract management, finance, and negotiation, provided that they are

able tocan justify their request.

Over the forthcoming months, VODA$$s procurement team will be integrated into

MTN$$s structure. There is a great deal of concern among VODA$$s staff because it is

assumed that interviews will be held and will place a great deal of emphasis on

their knowledge of procurement processes, particularly on category

management. This could result in a degree of conflict with the managers at MTN

who are viewed by VODA staff as being rather arrogant. VODA is concerned about

its need to conform to the MTN way of doing things.

There is some optimism among the senior management of both companies that

the contemporary approaches to management at VODA has created a diverse,

talented team of experts who can make a positive contribution to the continued

success of the now larger MTN$.$

Q$1$a$.$ Evaluate the impact of internationalization upon the operations of MTN$$s

supply chain.