Briefly discuss your reasoning for only the top item on your list.

ASSIGNMENT DIRECTIONS:

This assignment should take about two typed pages per question using a double-spaced format. Please do not exceed five typewritten pages in total! Include the attached cover page (not part of the 5) that includes the following information:

ASSIGNMENT QUESTIONS:

Please answer the following questions for this assignment:

Question 1: (50 points) The response to this question should not exceed two typewritten, double-spaced pages.

In his article, Lynch discussed several factors that influence the decision to outsource–they include personal productivity, flexibility, labor considerations, specialized services, information technology, global capabilities, and the maturity of the service provider (note–I did not include cost or ROA as part of this question—these two items cannot be used on your list.) Develop a list and rank these items in order of importance to you, from most important to least important.

1.      Submit the ranking of that list and

2.      Briefly discuss your reasoning for only the top item on your list. Do not discuss all of them–just your top one.

3.      Additionally, list one risk that is associated with that item and

4.      Clearly explain how you may be able to mitigate that risk.

5.      Lastly, how does this approach impact the overall network design?

Please use information from our readings to support your position.

Question 2: (50 points) The response to this question should not exceed two typewritten, double-spaced pages.

Some feel that our ongoing bout with the Covid 19 Pandemic might be viewed as the “Perfect Storm.” Decisions to single source vs. multiple sources, make in the USA or outsource to other countries, etc. not only impacted the demand for personal protective equipment (PPE) can but also can have an impact on the design of a supply chain. Please answer the follow questions:

1.   List what you feel was the most interesting operational issue that impacted the PPE supply chain.

2.    Explain why?

3.  Based upon any of the readings, text in Canvas, etc.  you have explored this semester, list how a principle associated with that reading connects to the issue listed in #1 above.

4.      Please cite the article, author, and page location.

5. Explain that connection.

Readings:

1. Gottfredson, M., Puryear, R., & Phillips, S. (2005). Strategic Sourcing from Periphery to Core. Harvard Business School Press. Brighton, MA: Ivey. Reading is included in the course pack via the Harvard Business website.

2. Lynch, C. F. (2004 October). Why Outsource? Supply Chain Management Review, 8(7). (pp. 44-51.)

3. Smock, D.A., Rudzki, R.A., & Rogers, S.C. (2007, May/June). Sourcing Strategy, The Brains Behind the Game. Supply Chain Management Review, 11(4). (pp. 42-48.)

Sample Solution

Question 1:

1. Information Technology
2. Specialized Services
3. Global Capabilities
4. Flexibility
5. Labor Considerations
6. Personal Productivity
7. Maturity of the Service Provider

The most important factor for me in outsourcing is Information Technology. This is because, in today’s world, technology plays a crucial role in business operations and by outsourcing IT services, companies can benefit from the expertise and resources of the service provider.

Risk associated with this item is that the outsourcing company might not meet the specific needs and requirements of the business. This can lead to a lack of compatibility between the systems and applications used by the business and the outsourcing company.

To mitigate this risk, it is important to conduct a thorough research on the outsourcing company, its track record, and the services it offers. The company should also have a clear and detailed contract that outlines the expectations, responsibilities, and obligations of both parties.

This approach impacts the overall network design by allowing the business to focus on its core operations, while outsourcing non-core functions. The outsourcing company is responsible for the IT functions and the business can focus on its strategic goals, leading to increased efficiency and productivity.

Question 2:

1. The most interesting operational issue that impacted the PPE supply chain is the shortage of supplies.
2. This issue was interesting because it highlights the importance of a robust supply chain and the need for companies to be prepared for unexpected events. The pandemic has resulted in an increased demand for PPE and other medical supplies, leading to a shortage of supplies.

The principle associated with the reading “Strategic Sourcing from Periphery to Core” by Gottfredson, Puryear, & Phillips (2005) that connects to the issue is the importance of having a diverse and resilient …Order a customized and more comprehensive answer here