Operations and Supply Chain Strategy

Abstract

This chapter discusses basic supply chain and operations strategies. It starts with an introductory case-study concerning supply chain strategies in the apparel industry. In the first part, operations strategies as well as the “strategic fit” are discussed. Subsequently, efficient and responsive supply chain strategies are distinguished. In the second part, the bullwhip-effect in supply chain and mitigating coordination strategies such as Vendor-managed Inventory (VMI) and Collaborative Planning, Forecasting, and Replenishment (CPFR) are presented. Finally, issues of supply chain resilience and sustainability are discussed. Additional case studies, Excel templates, tasks, and video streams enrich this chapter as part of an e-supplement.