Overview of chapter 5
This chapter aims to develop the concept of integration in supply chain management. We have already looked at the new and emerging business models with focus on integration across the supply chain. Our endeavour in this chapter will be look at the value of information in this integration and how this information integration allows firms to streamline system logistics to generate competitive advantage for all firms in the supply chain.
This chapter looks at the role of information in integrated supply chain management. One major obstacle in the integration process is the traditional functional view of managers which encourages a narrow outlook. In this chapter we will look at the rationale of information integration and information visibility.
Learning outcomes
By the end of this chapter, you should be able to:
- describe the bullwhip effect in a supply chain
- explain the main causes of the bullwhip effect
- discuss the value of information centralisation in a supply chain
- explain how the bullwhip effect can be minimised
- describe the effects of replenishment lead time on supply chain performance
- explain how lead time can be reduced
- discuss the limitations of forecasts and how real time information allows better forecasting
- explain why coordination and cooperation are essential in supply chain management and how information helps achieve them.
Topics
- 5.1 Introduction
- 5.2 Information and supply chain integration
5.2.1 The bullwhip effect
5.2.2 The reasons for bullwhip effect
5.2.3 Quantifying the bullwhip effect
5.2.4 Measuring bullwhip effect: The practical issues
5.2.5 Bullwhip effect: Managerial insight
5.2.6 Reducing bullwhip effects - 5.3 Effective forecasts and supply chain integration
- 5.4 Collaborative supply chains and information integration
- 5.5 Supply chain systems and information integration
- 5.6 Information and the synchronised supply chain
- 5.7 Summary