INTRODUCTION TO THE SUPPLY FUNCTION (Distance Learning)

If your company makes a product from parts purchased from suppliers, and you sell those products to your customers, then you have a supply chain. Some supply chains are simple; others can be surprisingly complicated.  Coming new to the supply function, you may find yourself baffled by the scope of its operation: the supply chain isn’t just trucks, pallets and warehouses.  Managing the supply function means coordinating the process from end to end.
 
This course introduces you to the core themes of supply chain management: getting the right materials, of the right quality, to the right location, at the right time and the right price. 
 
The course consists of 4 modules, each of which requires about 7-10 hours’ study over 2-3 weeks. The course is designed to be studied over a continuous period, estimated to be 8 to 10 weeks.

You will have tutor support by e-mail for a total of 12 continuous weeks after you have downloaded the first module.

Each module will be downloaded on request and will consist of:

•  an illustrated text containing about 30 pages
• various activities for you to undertake
• learning checks to confirm your understanding before you progress to the next module

 
Also provided with the first module are:

• an introductory study guide suggesting how you can make best use of the training this course provides
• a glossary of supply business terminology

We have designed this course for newcomers to supply chain management, including new hires and transfers from other department warehouse staff needing to gain an overview of the supply function.  It will also benefit management trainees.

Core Topics Covered are: 

• Identifying demand
• Specification
• Supplier Appraisal
• Bid comparisons and vendor selection
• Order processing
• Receiving
• Storage and inventory management
• Warehouse operations
• Transport
• Disposal