Understanding how small fluctuations in retail demand amplify as they move upstream toward manufacturers and suppliers. Category 1: Conceptual & Analytical Questions Question 1: Fisher's Framework Matrix
Using the Weighted Factory Location Model , how would you choose between three sites based on labor costs, currency stability, and proximity to markets? [19].
Inventory concepts are tested with both conceptual questions and quantitative problems:
Now let's put theory into practice. Here are representative questions from actual SCM midterms, organized by question type.
: Most curricula focus on Planning, Sourcing, Manufacturing, Logistics, and Returns .
Answer guidance: Two key purchasing objectives include: (1) ensuring uninterrupted flow of materials and services at the lowest total cost, and (2) maintaining and improving quality while developing strong supplier relationships.
Q*=μ+(z×σ)cap Q raised to the * power equals mu plus open paren z cross sigma close paren
For complex word problems, sketch out the tiers (Supplier →right arrow Manufacturer →right arrow Distributor →right arrow
In 2021–2022, global supply chains faced severe disruptions (e.g., container shortages, port closures, semiconductor crisis). Explain two root causes from a supply chain design perspective and recommend two strategies companies can adopt to build more resilient supply chains.
A distributor experiences an average daily demand of 50 units with a standard deviation of 8 units. Lead time from the supplier is a constant 9 days. If the company targets a 95% service level (
Which forecast error metric is traditionally used to calculate safety stock levels? [10]. 4. Operations and Distribution
The store requires a safety stock of (or 40 units rounded up). 2. Calculate Reorder Point (ROP):
Why is purchasing different from supply chain management?
| Period | Actual | Forecast | |--------|--------|----------| | 1 | 100 | 100 | | 2 | 110 | 105 | | 3 | 120 | 115 | | 4 | 130 | 125 |