Midterm Flashcards
Economic Utility and Customer Needs
Understanding Economic Utility
Economic utility refers to the value or usefulness of a product in fulfilling customer needs and wants
impacting purchasing decisions.
It encompasses various forms of utility: form
time
Example: A product that is available at the right time and place enhances its utility
making it more appealing to consumers.
Customized Customer Offerings
The concept of a customized customer signifies the demand for tailored products that meet specific preferences.
Mass customization allows companies to deliver highly personalized products
enhancing customer satisfaction and loyalty.
Case Study: Nike’s ‘Nike By You’ program enables customers to design their own shoes
exemplifying mass customization.
Logistics Strategies and Approaches
Mass Logistics vs. Omnichannel Retailing
Mass logistics is a uniform approach where all customers receive the same level of service
which may not meet individual needs.
Omnichannel retailing integrates multiple sales channels
providing a seamless shopping experience across platforms (online
Example: Target’s omnichannel strategy allows customers to order online and pick up in-store
enhancing convenience.
Fragmented vs. Centralized Logistics
Fragmented logistics involves dividing logistics activities among various departments
potentially leading to inefficiencies.
Centralized logistics consolidates all logistics functions under one department
improving coordination and efficiency.
Pros and cons of each approach should be evaluated based on company size and operational complexity.
Technology in Logistics Management
Communication Systems and EDI
Effective communication systems are crucial for collaboration among stakeholders (employees
suppliers
EDI (Electronic Data Interchange) facilitates seamless data transmission
enhancing supply chain coordination.
Common EDI applications include invoicing
purchase orders
Warehouse Management Systems (WMS) and ERP
WMS software oversees storage and flow of materials
controlling inventory management and order processes.
ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning) systems integrate business processes
providing real-time data across functions.
Example: SAP ERP systems help companies automate and integrate their operations
improving efficiency.
Challenges and Solutions in Logistics
Addressing Pilferage and Productivity
Pilferage
or employee theft
Strategies to mitigate pilferage include implementing a zero-tolerance policy and enhancing security measures.
Productivity can be improved by reducing input while maintaining output
increasing output
Lean Six Sigma in Logistics
Lean Six Sigma combines quality improvement and efficiency strategies to enhance operational performance.
It emphasizes the importance of balancing quality and speed in logistics processes.
Companies adopting Lean Six Sigma report improved customer satisfaction and reduced operational costs.
Logistics Frameworks and Models
SCOR Model Overview
The SCOR Model identifies six key processes in supply chain management: Plan
Source