Supply Chain Analytics, 2nd Edition

A supply chain encompasses a complex network of organizations, individuals, and processes that collaborate to deliver a product or service from supplier to customer. It involves the movement of resources, materials, and components, which undergo various transformations until they reach the end customer in the form of a finished product. Given the prevailing challenges faced by executives within this realm today, it would be remiss not to acknowledge the increasing importance placed on analytics and planning as strategies for overcoming these obstacles. It is worth noting that many organizations are now recognizing this imperative and strategically allocating resources towards investments in analytics. A sizable portion of these funds are being directed specifically to enhance their supply chain functions due to its immense potential for innovation and competitive advantage. The application of analytical tools within supply chains not only aids organizations in streamlining their processes but also enables them to uncover insights through cross-functional analysis.

This edition is comprised of eight chapters, each with its own unique content and purpose. Within these chapters, the material has been revised and restructured to provide a comprehensive understanding of supply chain management. Chapter One serves as an introduction to the essential components of a supply chain, delving into topics such as supply chain costs and metrics. Building upon this foundation, Chapter Two explores inventory management techniques including deterministic and stochastic inventory models that aid in risk pooling. Moving forward, Chapter Three examines models relevant to supply chain network design and optimization. Here, strategic considerations regarding transportation and distribution are key focal points in Chapter Four. The importance of coordination within the realm of supply chain management takes center stage in Chapter Five; collaborative planning tactics encompassing replenishment approaches are thoroughly explained. Continuing on our journey of discovery, Chapter Six hones in on the crucial role information plays within a successful supply chain system. Additionally, this chapter emphasizes how e-commerce acts as an enabler for achieving seamless integration throughout the entirety of a supply chain. Shifting gears once again, we find ourselves exploring business analytics in Chapter Seven. This segment illustrates how data-driven insights can positively impact performance within the realms of both individual businesses as well as their collective systems through concepts such as process maturity models. Finally, Chapter Eight focuses on purchasing management specifically tailored towards meeting the demands imposed by intricate supply chains.