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Supply Chain Management Strategy

Rudolf Leuschner, Ph.D.

Have you ever wondered what it takes to manage a successful supply chain? It all comes down to the right strategy. Supply Chain Management Strategy is the indispensable direction for managing a successful supply chain. This course is the capstone of the Supply Chain Management specialization. While, it is strongly recommended that you take all courses in this specialization, you do not have to if you believe you already have those skills. You will use the tools acquired in the previous four courses to create a supply chain management strategy in a real-life case scenario. At the completion of this course you will have shown mastery of the tools and techniques to successfully manage a complex network of companies that we call the supply chain.

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What's inside

Syllabus

What is Supply Chain Strategy
In this module you will be introduced to the business case that you will work on over the duration of this course. The goal of this part is to determine the overall direction of your improvement efforts. After completing this module, you will be able to recognize the issues in a business better as well as customize your specific recommendations in the remainder of the course.
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Traffic lights

Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Develops skills in logistics, operations, planning, and sourcing, which are core skills for managing a supply chain
Taught by Rudolf Leuschner, Ph.D., who is recognized for their work in Supply Chain Management
Examines real-life case scenarios, which is highly relevant to industry
Strong fit for individuals with experience in supply chain management who are looking to advance their careers
Explicitly requires that this course be taken in serial with others as part of a series, which may be a deterrent to some learners

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Reviews summary

Capstone strategy for supply chain

According to learners, this course serves as an effective capstone for the specialization, allowing them to apply knowledge gained from previous modules. Many found the case study practical and relevant, offering valuable experience in developing a comprehensive supply chain strategy. The course is often described as challenging yet rewarding, requiring significant effort but providing a solid understanding of strategic decision-making in supply chain management. Some reviewers noted the course material, particularly the videos, could benefit from updates to feel more current, although the core principles remain relevant. Overall, it's seen as a highly valuable course for professionals seeking to deepen their strategic insights.
Requires effort but deepens understanding.
"The assignments were challenging but forced me to think critically about strategic issues."
"Requires significant time and effort, but the learning gained is proportional to the work put in."
"The peer review process was sometimes difficult, but it helped me refine my own work."
"The workload is substantial, especially if you want to do well on the case analysis."
Provides a strong strategic framework.
"This course provides a solid foundation in supply chain strategy development."
"It helped me understand the key considerations for developing a robust strategy."
"I gained a clear understanding of how different supply chain functions relate strategically."
"The course content offers a good framework for analyzing and improving supply chains."
Integrates prior learning from the specialization.
"This course is an excellent capstone that brings together all the topics from the specialization."
"It's a great way to consolidate everything you've learned in the previous courses."
"The course successfully integrates concepts from logistics, operations, planning, and sourcing."
"This capstone effectively reinforced my understanding of the entire supply chain process."
Apply concepts using a realistic case scenario.
"The case study is very practical and allows me to use the knowledge I learned in the previous courses."
"The case study simulation in this course provides a realistic view on how to approach supply chain strategy."
"I really enjoyed the case study approach; it was helpful to see how the concepts apply to a real business."
"Applying the concepts from the entire specialization to the MTC case was a very valuable learning experience."
Some content feels slightly dated.
"Some of the video content feels a little old; could benefit from updates with more current examples or technology."
"While the core principles are timeless, the presentation style and some examples seem dated."
"I think the course material needs refreshing to include more recent trends and technologies in SCM."
"The foundational theory is good, but I hoped for more discussion on modern tools and disruptions."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Supply Chain Management Strategy with these activities:
Organize and compile course materials for future reference
Stay organized and enhance your learning by compiling and organizing all course materials, including notes, assignments, and quizzes, for easy future reference.
Show steps
  • Create a dedicated folder or notebook for course materials
  • Regularly add and organize notes, assignments, and quizzes
  • Review and update your materials periodically
Review basic algebra concepts
Refresh your memory on basic algebra skills to solidify your foundational understanding of the course material.
Browse courses on Algebra
Show steps
  • Review notes and textbooks on algebra concepts
  • Solve practice problems in a workbook or online platform
  • Attend a refresher course or workshop
Follow online tutorials on supply chain management concepts
Enhance your understanding of complex supply chain concepts by engaging with interactive online tutorials led by experts.
Browse courses on Supply Chain Management
Show steps
  • Identify reliable and reputable online platforms offering supply chain management tutorials
  • Select tutorials that align with the course content and your learning goals
  • Follow the tutorials carefully, taking notes and completing exercises
  • Seek clarification and ask questions in forums or online communities
Six other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all nine activities
Attend industry events and conferences on supply chain management
Expand your network and gain valuable insights by attending industry events and conferences dedicated to supply chain management.
Browse courses on Supply Chain Management
Show steps
  • Identify and research upcoming events and conferences
  • Register and prepare for the event
  • Attend sessions and workshops
  • Connect with professionals and experts in the field
Solve case studies and simulations in supply chain management
Apply your knowledge in realistic scenarios by solving complex case studies and simulations related to supply chain management.
Browse courses on Supply Chain Management
Show steps
  • Find case studies and simulations that are relevant to the course topics
  • Analyze the case studies, identify key issues and challenges
  • Develop and evaluate alternative solutions
  • Present your findings and recommendations
Volunteer with organizations involved in supply chain management
Gain hands-on experience and make a valuable contribution by volunteering with organizations focused on supply chain management.
Browse courses on Supply Chain Management
Show steps
  • Identify volunteer opportunities with organizations in the supply chain industry
  • Contact organizations and inquire about volunteer positions
  • Participate in volunteer activities and learn from professionals
  • Contribute your skills and knowledge to support their mission
Develop a supply chain management improvement plan
Demonstrate your mastery of supply chain management principles by creating a comprehensive plan to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of a real-world supply chain.
Browse courses on Supply Chain Management
Show steps
  • Identify a specific supply chain to focus on
  • Conduct thorough research and data analysis to understand its current state
  • Develop a detailed plan outlining your proposed improvements
  • Present your plan to stakeholders and experts for feedback
  • Implement the plan and monitor its impact
Mentor junior students or professionals in supply chain management
Share your knowledge and expertise by mentoring junior students or professionals, reinforcing your understanding of supply chain management concepts.
Browse courses on Supply Chain Management
Show steps
  • Identify opportunities to mentor others
  • Prepare and plan for mentoring sessions
  • Provide guidance and support on supply chain management topics
  • Share your experiences and lessons learned
Contribute to open-source projects related to supply chain management
Gain practical experience and contribute to the supply chain management community by participating in open-source projects.
Browse courses on Supply Chain Management
Show steps
  • Identify open-source projects related to supply chain management
  • Review the project documentation and code
  • Identify areas where you can contribute
  • Submit pull requests or contribute in other ways

Career center

Learners who complete Supply Chain Management Strategy will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Supply Chain Manager
Supply Chain Managers oversee the movement of goods and services from suppliers to customers. They are responsible for planning, organizing, and directing the flow of inventory through the supply chain. This course in Supply Chain Management Strategy can help you develop the skills and knowledge you need to succeed in this role. You will learn how to analyze supply chain data, develop and implement supply chain strategies, and manage supplier relationships.
See salaries and explore the career path for Supply Chain Manager
Logistician
Logisticians plan, coordinate, and implement the movement of goods and services. They work with suppliers, carriers, and customers to ensure that products are delivered on time and in good condition. This course in Supply Chain Management Strategy can help you develop the skills and knowledge you need to succeed in this role. You will learn how to manage logistics operations, develop logistics strategies, and use logistics technology.
See salaries and explore the career path for Logistician
Operations Manager
Operations Managers plan, organize, and direct the production of goods and services. They are responsible for ensuring that products are produced efficiently and meet customer demand. This course in Supply Chain Management Strategy can help you develop the skills and knowledge you need to succeed in this role. You will learn how to manage operations processes, develop operations strategies, and use operations technology.
See salaries and explore the career path for Operations Manager
Procurement Manager
Procurement Managers are responsible for sourcing and purchasing goods and services for their organizations. They work with suppliers to negotiate contracts and ensure that goods and services are delivered on time and in good condition. This course in Supply Chain Management Strategy can help you develop the skills and knowledge you need to succeed in this role. You will learn how to manage procurement processes, develop procurement strategies, and use procurement technology.
See salaries and explore the career path for Procurement Manager
Transportation Manager
Transportation Managers are responsible for planning, organizing, and directing the transportation of goods and services. They work with carriers to negotiate contracts and ensure that goods and services are delivered on time and in good condition. This course in Supply Chain Management Strategy can help you develop the skills and knowledge you need to succeed in this role. You will learn how to manage transportation operations, develop transportation strategies, and use transportation technology.
See salaries and explore the career path for Transportation Manager
Inventory Manager
Inventory Managers are responsible for planning, organizing, and directing the storage and distribution of inventory. They work with suppliers and customers to ensure that inventory is available to meet demand. This course in Supply Chain Management Strategy can help you develop the skills and knowledge you need to succeed in this role. You will learn how to manage inventory operations, develop inventory strategies, and use inventory technology.
See salaries and explore the career path for Inventory Manager
Demand Planner
Demand Planners are responsible for forecasting demand for goods and services. They work with sales and marketing teams to develop demand forecasts and ensure that the organization has the resources to meet demand. This course in Supply Chain Management Strategy can help you develop the skills and knowledge you need to succeed in this role. You will learn how to develop demand forecasts, analyze demand data, and use demand planning technology.
See salaries and explore the career path for Demand Planner
Business Analyst
Business Analysts identify and solve business problems. They work with stakeholders to understand business needs and develop solutions that improve efficiency and profitability. This course in Supply Chain Management Strategy may be useful for Business Analysts who want to develop a deeper understanding of supply chain management. You will learn how to analyze supply chain data, develop supply chain strategies, and manage supplier relationships.
See salaries and explore the career path for Business Analyst
Financial Analyst
Financial Analysts provide financial advice to individuals and organizations. They analyze financial data and make recommendations on investments, savings, and other financial matters. This course in Supply Chain Management Strategy may be useful for Financial Analysts who want to develop a deeper understanding of supply chain management. You will learn how to analyze supply chain data, develop supply chain strategies, and manage supplier relationships.
See salaries and explore the career path for Financial Analyst
Management Consultant
Management Consultants help organizations improve their performance. They work with clients to identify problems and develop solutions that improve efficiency and profitability. This course in Supply Chain Management Strategy may be useful for Management Consultants who want to develop a deeper understanding of supply chain management. You will learn how to analyze supply chain data, develop supply chain strategies, and manage supplier relationships.
See salaries and explore the career path for Management Consultant
Project Manager
Project Managers plan, organize, and direct projects. They work with project teams to ensure that projects are completed on time, within budget, and to the required quality standards. This course in Supply Chain Management Strategy may be useful for Project Managers who want to develop a deeper understanding of supply chain management. You will learn how to analyze supply chain data, develop supply chain strategies, and manage supplier relationships.
See salaries and explore the career path for Project Manager
Sales Manager
Sales Managers plan, organize, and direct sales operations. They work with sales teams to develop sales strategies and ensure that sales targets are met. This course in Supply Chain Management Strategy may be useful for Sales Managers who want to develop a deeper understanding of supply chain management. You will learn how to analyze supply chain data, develop supply chain strategies, and manage supplier relationships.
See salaries and explore the career path for Sales Manager
Marketing Manager
Marketing Managers plan, organize, and direct marketing operations. They work with marketing teams to develop marketing strategies and ensure that marketing campaigns are successful. This course in Supply Chain Management Strategy may be useful for Marketing Managers who want to develop a deeper understanding of supply chain management. You will learn how to analyze supply chain data, develop supply chain strategies, and manage supplier relationships.
See salaries and explore the career path for Marketing Manager
Human Resources Manager
Human Resources Managers plan, organize, and direct human resources operations. They work with human resources teams to develop human resources strategies and ensure that the organization has the talent it needs to achieve its goals. This course in Supply Chain Management Strategy may be useful for Human Resources Managers who want to develop a deeper understanding of supply chain management. You will learn how to analyze supply chain data, develop supply chain strategies, and manage supplier relationships.
See salaries and explore the career path for Human Resources Manager
Information Technology Manager
Information Technology Managers plan, organize, and direct information technology operations. They work with information technology teams to develop information technology strategies and ensure that the organization has the technology it needs to achieve its goals. This course in Supply Chain Management Strategy may be useful for Information Technology Managers who want to develop a deeper understanding of supply chain management. You will learn how to analyze supply chain data, develop supply chain strategies, and manage supplier relationships.
See salaries and explore the career path for Information Technology Manager

Reading list

We've selected 12 books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Supply Chain Management Strategy.
Cover image
Supply Chain Management
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of supply chain management, covering topics such as strategy, planning, and operations. It valuable resource for students and professionals who want to learn more about supply chain management.
Supply Chain Management: Strategy, Planning, and...
Hardcover
$$$$
Supply Chain Management (5th Edition)
Hardcover
$$$$
Supply Chain Management: Strategy@@ Planning@@ and...
Paperback
$$$$
Supply Chain Management, 4th Edition
Hardcover
$$
Supply Chain Management: Strategy, Planning, and...
Hardcover
$$$$
Supply Chain Management: Strategy, Planning, and...
Hardcover
$$$
Supply Chain Management 5e
Paperback
$$$
Cover image
Modeling the Supply Chain
Save
Provides a conceptual and mathematical framework for supply chain management. It valuable resource for researchers and professionals who want to learn more about the theoretical foundations of supply chain management.
Modeling the Supply Chain
Hardcover
$$$$
Modeling the Supply Chain
Hardcover
$$$
Cover image
Logistics and Supply Chain Management
Save
Provides a comprehensive introduction to logistics and supply chain management. It valuable resource for students and professionals who want to learn more about these topics.
Logistics and Supply Chain Management: Logistics &...
Paperback
$$$
Logistics and Supply Chain Management: Logistics &...
Kindle Edition
$$
Purchasing & Supply Chain Management
Save
Provides a global perspective on supply chain management. It valuable resource for students and professionals who want to learn more about how to manage supply chains in a global environment.
Purchasing & Supply Chain Management
Paperback
Check
Purchasing & Supply Chain Management
Kindle Edition
Check
Cover image
Transforming Supply Chains
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of supply chain management, covering topics such as strategy, planning, and execution. It valuable resource for students and professionals who want to learn more about supply chain management.
Transforming Supply Chains: Realign your business...
Paperback
$$
Transforming Supply Chains: Realign Your Business...
Kindle Edition
$$
Cover image
Supply Chain Management For Dummies
Save
Provides a basic overview of supply chain management. It valuable resource for students and professionals who want to learn more about the basics of supply chain management.
Supply Chain Management For Dummies
Paperback
$$
Supply Chain Management for Dummies (For Dummies...
Paperback
$$
Supply Chain Management For Dummies (For Dummies...
Paperback
$$$
Supply Chain Management For Dummies
Kindle Edition
$$
Cover image
Supply Management
Save
Provides a basic overview of supply chain management. It valuable resource for students and professionals who want to learn more about the basics of supply chain management.
World Class Supply Management
Paperback
$$$
Supply Chain Logistics Management
Save
Provides a practical approach to supply chain management. It valuable resource for students and professionals who want to learn more about how to manage supply chains.
Supply Chain Logistics Management
Paperback
$$$
Cover image
Supplier Relationship Management
Save
Provides a basic overview of supply chain management. It valuable resource for students and professionals who want to learn more about the basics of supply chain management.
Supplier Relationship Management: How to Maximize...
Paperback
$$
Supplier Relationship Management: How to Maximize...
Kindle Edition
$$
Cover image
Supply Chain Roadmap
Save
Provides a guide to supply chain management for small and mid-sized businesses. It valuable resource for business owners and managers who want to learn more about how to manage their supply chains.
Supply Chain Roadmap: Aligning supply chain with...
Paperback
$$
Cover image
Business Logistics/supply Chain Management
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of logistics management. It valuable resource for students and professionals who want to learn more about logistics management.
Business Logistics/Supply Chain Management
Paperback
$$
Cover image
Operations Management
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of operations management, covering topics such as sustainability and supply chain management. It valuable resource for students and professionals who want to learn more about operations management.
Service Systems Engineering and Management...
Hardcover
$$$$
Operations Management, First Canadian Edition with...
Hardcover
$$$
Operations Management, First Canadian Edition
Hardcover
$$$
Operations Management: Sustainability and Supply...
Hardcover
$$$$
Operations Management: Sustainability and Supply...
Loose Leaf
$$$
Operations Management: Sustainability and Supply...
Hardcover
$$$$

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Effort
6 weeks of study, 2-4 hours/week
Via
Coursera
Institution
Rutgers the State University of New Jersey
Instructor
Rudolf Leuschner, Ph.D.
Language
English
Transcripts
Español Français Português Deutsch Italiano 中文 العربية 한국어 日本語 हिंदी Nederlands Svenska Pусский Türkçe Polski Ελληνικά українська мова magyar nyelv Bahasa Indonesia ไทย қазақша اُردُو, فارسی বাংলা tiếng Việt پښتو آذربایجان دیلی
This course belongs to a collection called Supply Chain Management. It's comprised of six courses:
  1. Supply Chain Sourcing
  2. Supply Chain Management Strategy (viewing)
  3. Supply Chain Logistics
  4. Supply Chain Planning
  5. Supply Chain Operations
  6. Supply Chain Comprehensive Exam
Traffic lights
Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Develops skills in logistics, operations, planning, and sourcing, which are core skills for managing a supply chain
Taught by Rudolf Leuschner, Ph.D., who is recognized for their work in Supply Chain Management
Examines real-life case scenarios, which is highly relevant to industry
Strong fit for individuals with experience in supply chain management who are looking to advance their careers
Explicitly requires that this course be taken in serial with others as part of a series, which may be a deterrent to some learners
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