Supply Chain Management Basics (SCMB) — Training Course Outline
Overview
- Introduction to Supply Chain Management (SCM): definition, scope, and strategic importance in modern organisations
- Exploration of the end-to-end supply chain process: from raw materials sourcing to product delivery and returns
- Emphasis on the interconnectedness of supply chain functions and their role in achieving organisational goals
- Contextualisation of SCM in today’s global, complex, and technology-driven environment
Learning Objectives
- Define key supply chain concepts and terminology, including procurement, inventory, warehousing, and logistics
- Understand the five core components of SCM: Planning & Analysis, Sourcing, Manufacturing, Distribution, and Returns
- Recognise how SCM supports organisational strategy, financial performance, and customer satisfaction
- Identify common challenges and risks in supply chains and strategies for resilience and risk mitigation
- Explore the impact of emerging technologies such as Artificial Intelligence on supply chain optimisation
- Develop awareness of key performance indicators (KPIs) and metrics used to measure supply chain effectiveness
Training Methodology
- Interactive instructor-led presentations with real-world case studies from diverse industries (healthcare, manufacturing, retail)
- Group discussions and Q&A sessions to deepen understanding and encourage knowledge sharing
- Practical exercises including supply chain mapping, demand forecasting simulations, and supplier evaluation role-plays
- Quizzes and knowledge checks at the end of each day to reinforce learning outcomes
- Use of multimedia resources such as videos and infographics to illustrate complex concepts visually
- Optional on-site or virtual delivery tailored to organisational needs, with flexibility for cohort size and scheduling
Organisational and Personal Impact
- Organisational: Improved supply chain efficiency, cost reduction, enhanced supplier relationships, and stronger risk management
- Personal: Enhanced professional skills and knowledge, career development opportunities in supply chain roles, and certification readiness
- Empowerment to contribute to strategic decision-making and operational improvements within participants’ organisations
- Increased awareness of ethical sourcing and sustainability considerations in supply chain management
- Preparation for advanced SCM topics and specialised certifications (e.g., SCPro™, ASCM Foundations)
Target Audience
- Entry-level professionals new to supply chain roles seeking foundational knowledge
- Mid-career practitioners aiming to refresh or broaden their SCM understanding
- Managers and supervisors responsible for supply chain functions or cross-functional coordination
- Professionals from procurement, logistics, operations, inventory management, and related departments
- Organisations looking to upskill teams for improved supply chain performance and resilience
- Individuals preparing for certification exams or career transitions into supply chain management
Course Outline
Day 1: Introduction and Supply Chain Fundamentals
- SCM definition, history, and strategic role
- Overview of supply chain components and flows
- Demand planning and forecasting basics
Day 2: Procurement and Supplier Management
- Sourcing strategies and supplier evaluation
- Procurement process steps and challenges
- Supplier relationship management and ethical sourcing
Day 3: Operations and Inventory Management
- Manufacturing and service operations overview
- Inventory types, management techniques, and optimisation
- Lean principles and quality management in SCM
Day 4: Warehousing and Transportation
- Warehousing operations and types of warehouses
- Transportation modes, logistics challenges, and cost factors
- Metrics for measuring transportation and warehouse performance
Day 5: Risk Management, Technology, and Future Trends
- Supply chain risk identification and mitigation strategies
- Role of Artificial Intelligence and digital tools in SCM
- Sustainability and globalisation impacts
- Course review, final quiz, and participant feedback
Conclusion
- Recap of key learnings and their practical applications in participants’ roles
- Encouragement to apply SCM principles to drive organisational success and personal growth
- Highlight pathways for further learning and certification in supply chain management
- Invitation to join professional SCM communities and networks for ongoing development
- Final Q&A and course evaluation to ensure continuous improvement of training delivery