QUESTION 1 (40 MARKS)

Figure 1: Supply Chain Management Scope (Gruat La Forme et. al., 2007)

In the era of globalization, business organizations cannot ignore the economic trends, competitive situations and/or technology innovations happening in other countries and competitors, regardless of their primary market or current location. Helping them deliver in such activities is an efficient supply chain strategy that is supported by various technological innovations. Figure shows a typical Supply Chain Management Scope of EC Enterprises, a modern retail business organization operating in Namibia. Carefully analyze Figure 1 and answer the following questions.

(a) Explain in your own understanding what is meant by Supply Chain Management? [2 marks]

(b) Using examples, discuss the role of technology in Supply Chain Management in modern business organizations.[8 marks]

(c) Outline how the following key technological tools can enhance the Supply Chain Management of EC Enterprises. Use examples to express your ideas.

i)Bar coding and Scanner.[5 marks]

ii)Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) Systems.[5 marks]

iii)Warehouse Management Systems (WMS). [5 marks]

iv)Transportation Management Systems (TMS).[5 marks]

v)Inventory Management Systems (IMS). [5 marks]

vi) Decision Support Systems (DSS). [5 marks]