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Teaching Note
| HBS Case Collection
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1997
Module Overview: Coordinating and Managing Supply Chains: Matching Supply and Demand TN
by
Ananth Raman
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Abstract
Prepares students to configure operating and distribution systems to provide product (or service) supply to match customer demand. Begins by introducing students to the supply-demand mismatch problem, documenting its significance in many companies, and suggesting ways to quantify its components. Also examines the underlying causes of mismatched supply and demand; although emanating primarily from a firm's inability to forecast demand, supply-demand mismatch is exacerbated by poor planning, operational constraints, and high working capital costs among other factors. Helps students identify how managers can reduce supply-demand mismatch costs, not only by reducing exacerbating factors but also by employing other mechanisms, such as effective use of supply chain intermediaries.
Keywords: Demand and Consumers;
Working Capital;
Distribution;
Cost of Capital;
Management Practices and Processes;
Supply Chain Management;
Forecasting and Prediction;
Supply and Industry;