Introduction to Supply Chain Management

Abstract

This chapter guides you through the basics of supply chain management. First, it introduces you to a supply chain with simple product, information and fund flows. Second, it outlines a functional view on supply chain management and the structure of the following five chapters on plan, source, make, deliver and return will be introduced. Third, it will look at supply chain architecture and dynamics. Here you will be introduced to the challenge of balancing supply and demand with inventory. The chapter closes with a brief introduction to the next ten chapters on supply chain management.

Having read this chapter you will be able to:

• Clarify what supply chains are and name their main components

• Define a recommended functional model to categorise supply chain processes

• Determine the architecture and dynamics in product supply chains