ABSTRACT
Identify the obstacles that impede supply chain integration ◾ Describe the diff erences between mass production and mass customization ◾ Explain why there is a need to move from vertical integration to virtual ◾ integration Identify the factors that drive the need for integrating supply chains ◾ Describe the changes needed to integrate supply chains ◾ Justify the use of strategic planning when integrating the supply chain ◾ Explain why integrating supply chains requires a project management approach ◾
Introduction* Increased competition is forcing businesses to consider how best to gain a competitive advantage or at least to hold their own against global competitors. As a result, eff ective supply chain management (SCM) is becoming increasingly important. Today’s supply chains are comprised of selected customers and suppliers who build lean and agile supply networks.
