Curricula

Objectives

In this course, we will look closely at supply chain management from a general manager's viewpoint. We shall focus on the crucial role of logistics and how to efficiently handle the transfer of information or products in a supply chain. The course will highlight the connection between the design of a logistics system and the main goals of the supply chain.

Our main goal is to understand how the choices made in logistics can deeply impact both the performance of a single company and the overall effectiveness of the supply chain. Throughout the class, we will explore the important connections between the structures of supply chains and the logistical abilities of a company or supply chain. Additionally, we will talk about the modern idea of the demand chain, using logistics management, supply chain management, and demand chain management interchangeably to give a complete understanding of how they all work together in the business world.

Competences:
This course emphasizes the following key aspects: Supply Chain Management and Logistics, Learning to learn, Internationality and Multiculturalism and responsible international business management

Content

Logistics and supply chain management are unique, representing a paradox to some extent, as they involve one of the oldest and simultaneously one of the most recently acknowledged business activities. The activities within the supply chain system, such as communication, inventory management, warehousing, transportation, and facility location, have been integral since the inception of commercial endeavors. It is challenging to envision any product reaching a customer without the essential support provided by logistics.

However, it is only in recent years that companies have begun recognizing logistics and supply chain management as a crucial source of competitive advantage. There is a growing realization that a company's performance is inherently tied to the effectiveness of its logistics system. This recognition is amplified by the shrinking product life cycles and the heightened levels of competition in the contemporary business landscape.

Today, logistics and supply chain management present both a significant challenge and a tremendous opportunity for most firms, given the dynamic nature of business environments.

Time and location

Nonstop, online course

Learning materials and recommended literature

Textbook:
Author: Waters Donald
Title: Supply Chain Management. An introduction to Logistics. 2nd Edition.
Material: Book
Published: 2009, Palgrave McMillan

Additional reading:
Authors: Sunil Chopra,
Title: Supply Chain Management - Strategy, Planning and Operation (6th edition or newer). This book may be got for free in Internet.

The learning management system (Moodle) provides slides that feature key information on supply chain management. Additionally, specific articles and videos may be assigned for use in assignments and will be clearly specified.

Teaching methods

- Self-paced learning according to your own schedule
- Distance learning, specifically through the study of the virtual study environment (Moodle)
- Assignments
- Examination

Practical training and working life connections

Working life connections appear in assignments.

Exam dates and retake possibilities

The possible date and method of the exam will be announced in the course opening information.

Alternative completion methods

If a student has already acquired knowledge of supply chain management from another school or other way, the admission procedures for crediting will be outlined in the degree rules and study guide. The teacher of the course will provide additional information on any specific course requirements.

Student workload

This is a nonstop course. Student may enroll to the course during 1.8.-1.5. There are two (2) different time periods inside the nonstop course:
- Course studied by 1.12.
- Course studied by 1.5.

Students select their preferred time period within the virtual learning environment, which should align with their enrollment and study rights. They have the flexibility to devise their own schedule for assignments and tasks within the chosen timeframe.

If access to the virtual learning environment is not granted within 2 weeks of enrollment, please reach out to the course teacher for assistance.

The calculated workload is the number of credits times 27 hours.
In the 5 credit course, the workload is 135h.

Further information for students

Avoin amk 5

Evaluation scale

0-5

Evaluation criteria, satisfactory (1-2)

The overall assessment consists of the total points of the assignments and the exam indicated in the course.
- Sufficient(1) - You understand the basics and terminology, but you have significant lack of interpretation of key issues.

- Satisfactory (2) - You understand the basics and terminology, but you have shortcomings in applying key issues.

Evaluation criteria, good (3-4)

- Good (3) - You have mastered the key aspects of the course. You have achieved a good level in the topics described in the learning outcomes and can apply the skills you have learned.
- Very Good (4) - You have achieved an excellent level in almost all the subjects described in the learning outcomes and are able to apply and analyze the skills you have learned.

Evaluation criteria, excellent (5)

- Excellent (5) - You have achieved an excellent level in all the subjects described in the learning outcomes and are able to apply the skills you have learned in a critical and innovative way.

Prerequisites

First year studies or basic business studies