Published Paper Details:

Supply chain management (SCM) is a coordinated system of managing the transportation and logistics activities in a manufacturing, wholesale or retail industry. The primary purpose of SCM is to optimize efficiency in supply chain distribution activities and cost optimization. Historically, each supply chain member took a concentrated view of its role in moving goods to the next stage. With an integrated supply chain model, all chain members collaborate with the end goal of delivering the best value to consumers. A primary benefit of integration in supply chain management is that your top players in this area coordinate all supply chain activities. This centralized approach leads more detail and efficient activities, as well as implementation of industry best practices in supply chain functions. Development of supplier relationships, acquisition of goods, storage, logistics and transportation are among the primary activities managed in an integrated supply chain. Rather than each division or department in the company overseeing its own activities, the integrated team communicates with leaders in each area to manage these activities. Relationships with vendors normally are stronger with integrated SCM as well.