Description
Each group will choose a particular product of interest. You will trace and document its
supply chain from sourcing of raw materials through manufacturing and distribution to
the eventual consumer, and on to any aftermarket. To build documentation, you will be
expected to develop contacts by phone, email, or personal meetings and then interview
them.
The most suitable topics will be supply chains of multiple levels that touch different
countries and cultures to deliver a product of personal interest to you or of general
importance to all. I suggest you start with a specific item and place and trace it forward
and back along its supply chain, just as the travels of a t-shirt we discussed in class.
You will submit a project report to your instructor together with a CD storing
the report, slides, photos, and any other interesting materials. The report cannot
exceed 6 pages (font 11, double space, including appendix, if any). The
report should answer as many questions listed below as possible (it is not required
to be in Q & A format). You need to provide the sources of your answers such as
internet links, magazines, etc. (if they are personal contacts, please provide their names,
positions in companies, and contact numbers). You are also required to make a 10-minute
presentation on your work on the due date.
Questions
It seems natural to organize your discussion along the flow of the supply chain; but there
are important issues that will reoccur all along the chain. The following questions will
help you organize your thoughts.
Infrastructure
1. What are the facilities associated with this supply chain? What are their characteristics
(including geographical locations) and ownership?
2. Can you map the facilities and associated flows of material such as shown in Figure
1?
3. What equipment is used for transportation between facilities?