Most people think that a supply chain management course is simply another accounting or bookkeeping course and that it would be super easy and would not require much effort.
And then there are others who think it is just another easy way to get a credit in a course without much effort.
However, before you too form this opinion, you should know that nothing can be further from the truth. A supply chain management course is a thorough and comprehensive course that will require you to read, understand and apply several concepts and theories.
Here are five things you can expect from a supply chain management course:
1. What’s It All About Anyway?
Most students go into this course thinking that it is similar to accounting. But the moment you start your classes, you will realize there is much more to supply chain management than just accounting.
Not only will you be required to understand finances, but you will also learn in great detail about the materials and products, the process of obtaining raw material, dealing with manufacturers, interacting with middlemen, dealing with the retailer, and meeting the needs of the consumer.
You will learn the different problems at every stage of the process, and you will be able to clearly identify who is responsible for what. You will develop a solid understanding of how the industry works at every level.
The complexity of supply chain management depends on the size of the business and the type of industry.
The point is that when you decide to enroll in a supply management course, you will learn much more than accounting. You will learn about basic purchasing functions, complicated purchase functions, operation, and delivery.
2. Discovering Data & Tracking
When you take a supply chain management course, you will quickly realize that it is very data focused. The entire theory of supply chain management is very process driven. Along the supply chain route, you have to deal with the complex dynamics of supply and demand. During this course, you will learn about computers and data processing; you will learn about infographics, and you will understand how to interpret data.
3. Knowing Its Importance
Throughout the supply chain management course, you will learn how critical this process is. One mistake along the supply chain route or a missed deadline can cost a company a huge amount of money.
And such mistakes can give your competitors a significant advantage over you.
To be successful in the world of supply chain management means you will have to have an understanding of logistics so that your company can meet the demands of the consumer and surpass your competitors.
4. Learning About Team Efforts
You will further learn that streamlining the supply chain process will require input and hard work from a dedicated team. Everyone has to step up to the challenges. Team effort will be the key and when success comes everyone wins. Even if one person is laid back or lazy, the whole system can break down.
5. Building Networks
Supply chain management is all about networking and developing relationships. You have to take the time and listen to everyone, and that includes your suppliers, vendors, buyers, and sellers. During this course, you will understand the importance of building connections and network management as this can ensure a smooth flow and can make your supply chain management process efficient and effective.
Once you complete the supply chain management course, there will be plenty of job opportunities for you including that operations analyst, sales, production manager, logistician or controller. The course is definitely worth it, but you must make sure you understand what it will entail.
