The objective of this module is to position supply-chain management in the context of its roots in operations management, and its relationship with other functional management.

The syllabus will focus on the 5 crucial pillars of Supply Chain Management which are: CONTEXT: Operations and Supply Chain Strategy, integration and the SCOR framework and approach to implementation. PLAN: Demand Management, Forecasting techniques, Capacity Planning and Integrated Supply Management SOURCE: Procurement, New Product Development, Project Management, MAKE: Manufacturing Process Design, Quality Management, Quality Improvement and Lean principles DELIVER/RETURN: Supply Chain Networks, Transportation and Logistics, reverse logistics and service integration, Key Performance Indicators ad approaches to Supply Chain Optimization

On successful completion of this module, students will be able to: - Explain key concepts underpinning decision-making in supply-chain management - Recognise the central role of planning in integrating source, make, deliver and return activities, and in accounting for work done and feedback into revaluation and review towards continuous improvement. - Explain the need for an integrative frame of reference in structuring supply-chain activities in terms of transactional activities and outcome measurement; in particular to understand the main high-level elements of the SCOR model with some ideas on how to implement it in practice. - Identify the system nature of supply-chain at a global level. - Compile the elements in a systematic fashion to the practical context of supply-chain work, with reference to the spirit of the SCOR framework.

On successful completion of this module, students will be able to:

N/A

This module will be delivered in a blended format with the online component facilitated by the University of Limerick's Virtual Learning Environment (VLE). Each week the students will be provided with a variety of reading materials which they are encouraged to study before attending the live online sessions. Also, the students will have access to a range of multimedia sources such as (YouTube, TED Talks, Recorded Lectures, Podcasts etc.) covering that week's specific topic which will encourage them to reflect and evaluate how their organisation applies or incorporates the specific topic(s) in it's day to day activities. Attendance at all LIVE sessions is highly recommended. They will also be recorded & available on the University's Virtual Learning Environment(VLE). Self-directed study is supported with guided reading and online content via the VLE. While based on essential academic theories, concepts and techniques, there will also be significant focus afforded to individual personal development coupled with the practical application of learning within the workplace. Students will be encouraged to contribute to the discussion on the topics taught. Students will undertake tutor marked practical assignments, which leverage their learnings from this module. Fulfilling UL Graduate Attributes: • Knowledgeable - Demonstrate Critical Thinking; Insight into latest developments and theoretical thinking • Creative - Use of a modern eLearning platform; innovative teaching techniques and methods of assessment. • Responsible - Appreciate the importance of adopting a responsible approach to their learning journey and also in their interactions with their peers especially in the context of group work. • Collaborative - Use of social media, online platforms and eLearning environments. • Articulate - Competency in conveying ideas clearly, effectively and professionally; recognition of the importance of effective written, verbal and digital communication skills