Homework
Information Technologies and Planning in Supply Chain and Logistics – Midterm Exam
Associate Professor S. Emre Alptekin
Questions.
1. What are the complexities involved in factoring out the effect of customs and duties in designing the supply network of Logan (i.e., where to build the CKD parts and CBU, and what markets to serve from what sites?) Should Renault build all CKDs in Romania, or should they source CKDs locally?
2. What are the primary causes of Mattel’s recall problems? Were these the result of outsourcing? What actions were taken by the principals in the case to address the recall problems? Were these the right actions? Why, or why not?
3. As the CEO of a consumer goods producer, you want to enter the Asian market and especially China. What challenges should you expect? You heard about a company called
Integrated Distribution Services Group, which is a successful solution provider in the market. IDS’s mission is to provide brand owners and retailers with a customized end-toend supply chain management solution: from manufacturing all the way through to delivery of finished goods to retail stores. How would you use IDS’s services to improve your sales figures and market share?
4. Evaluate the decision to enter a strategic alliance from the perspective of both Laura
Ashley and Federal Express? What are the real opportunities and risks of this approach?
Assume that the partnership is successful. What new strategic capabilities will it provide for Laura Ashley, and how, specifically, should they be used to expand its business?
5. Why do companies outsource freight management and contract logistics to third-party logistics providers (3PLs)? Why do 3PLs perform these activities better? Should Exel move into joint planning with Haus Mart?
6. You are a CEO of an international apparel company. In recent years, although the sales figures seemed to be increasing, your company faces financial under-performance, largely caused by dramatic problems in your
Associate Professor S. Emre Alptekin
Questions.
1. What are the complexities involved in factoring out the effect of customs and duties in designing the supply network of Logan (i.e., where to build the CKD parts and CBU, and what markets to serve from what sites?) Should Renault build all CKDs in Romania, or should they source CKDs locally?
2. What are the primary causes of Mattel’s recall problems? Were these the result of outsourcing? What actions were taken by the principals in the case to address the recall problems? Were these the right actions? Why, or why not?
3. As the CEO of a consumer goods producer, you want to enter the Asian market and especially China. What challenges should you expect? You heard about a company called
Integrated Distribution Services Group, which is a successful solution provider in the market. IDS’s mission is to provide brand owners and retailers with a customized end-toend supply chain management solution: from manufacturing all the way through to delivery of finished goods to retail stores. How would you use IDS’s services to improve your sales figures and market share?
4. Evaluate the decision to enter a strategic alliance from the perspective of both Laura
Ashley and Federal Express? What are the real opportunities and risks of this approach?
Assume that the partnership is successful. What new strategic capabilities will it provide for Laura Ashley, and how, specifically, should they be used to expand its business?
5. Why do companies outsource freight management and contract logistics to third-party logistics providers (3PLs)? Why do 3PLs perform these activities better? Should Exel move into joint planning with Haus Mart?
6. You are a CEO of an international apparel company. In recent years, although the sales figures seemed to be increasing, your company faces financial under-performance, largely caused by dramatic problems in your