Colorado Technical UniversitySCM 210 1) Discuss the building blocks of supply chain strategy, and detail the elements of each

Answer:

1.Discuss the building blocks of supply chain strategy, and detail the elements of each.

The supply chain strategy has several building blocks. The following part of the response concentrate on illustrating the blocks.

a. Strategic block- This block focuses on a single component that increases the customer's value. This block focuses on formulating techniques for the supply chain. Strategies are aimed at creating an efficient supply chain system.

b. Structural block - This supply chain strategy block focuses on the optimization of the supply chain network and the creation of the correct channel.

c. Operational block - This block focuses on preparing for integration. In this step, it is decided how service optimization can be achieved with the help of distribution and transport strategy.

d. Foundation block- Few supporting elements are of the utmost importance in order to make an entire supply chain network effective. The integration of trained human resources, technology and human resource performance management are key components of this block.

2. How does the supply chain strategy support the business strategy?

Strategies for the supply chain assist in several ways to support business strategy. Supply chain strategies help the organization's management team to keep in touch with the organization's stakeholders, particularly the organization's suppliers and other operating branches in various parts of the world. Supply chain strategy helps in inclusion of all the entities operating in several parts. Thus, conflicting decisions and goals within the company can be handled by the supply chain.

3. What are competitive priorities, and how do they help supply chain organizations gain a competitive advantage?

In the following part of the response, competitive priorities that help supply chain organizations to gain competitive advantage are explained.

a. Cost strategy - Delivering a product at minimum cost to the customer can help the organization gain competitive advantage. For example, Walmart is considered to be a leader in the low-cost industry and the organization's supply chain is efficient.

b. Time strategy- Rapid delivery of product, timely development of product help a supply chain organisation to gain competitive advantage.

c. Quality strategy- A supply chain organization can gain a competitive advantage by delivering the product safely to its desired location.

d. Flexibility strategy - Product availability on the basis of volume, shape and size should be high. For instance, if Amazon's operation is taken into account, it can be seen that on its online platform, Amazon sells a variety of products that have helped the organization gain competitive advantage.

References

Alvarez, Y. C. (2016). The Relationship Between the Performance Excellence Framework for Education and Student Achievement (Doctoral dissertation, The Claremont Graduate University).