Supply Chain Management - Course Syllabus
This exclusive Level 7 Diploma in Logistics and Supply Chain Management takes place over a series of 21 modules, each concluding with an online assessment for submission to your assigned tutor:
Module 1 - Introduction to Supply Chain Management
The course begins by presenting candidates with a detailed introduction to the concept of supply chain management, along with key activities within the supply chain and the physical movements of products and materials. The primary responsibilities of those who work in supply chain management are also presented and discussed.
Module 2 - Logistics in Supply Chain Management
Several key activities involved in logistics are then discussed, along with the role of logistics in a broader supply chain context. The objectives, benefits and limitations of a logistics strategy are also discussed, along with the primary components of an efficient logistics framework and an overview of several current logistics trends.
Module 3 - Logistics Strategy & Operations
Candidates are then presented with a more detailed examination of the logistics strategy development process, which also outlines the importance of confident and objective decision-making. The different types of decisions that must be made when formulating a logistics strategy are also discussed, along with tips for more accurate forecasting.
Module 4 - Planning & Sourcing Operations
Forward-planning as a key performance driver in all supply chain activities is then discussed, alongside essential tools, resources and strategies for improved planning processes. The concept of aggregate planning is also brought into discussion, alongside several potential challenges in accurate planning and forecasting.
Module 5 - Procurement Operations
The aims and objectives of procurement in a broader supply chain context are then discussed, along with the cornerstones of an effective procurement strategy and its main applications. Candidates also consider the growing popularity of e-procurement, along with a detailed breakdown of the procurement cycle and its component stages.
Module 6 - Manufacturing & Delivery Operations
Learners are then introduced to the concept of supply and demand, along with the extent to which manufacturing and delivery operations must be coordinated with specific market requirements. Tools and techniques for improving the accuracy of manufacturing cost calculations are also presented and discussed.
Module 7 - Market Distribution in the Supply Chain
The importance of choosing efficient, appropriate and cost-effective distribution channels is examined in Module Seven. Candidates consider the benefits and drawbacks of various distribution channels, along with how to create an effective distribution strategy on the basis of the firm’s objectives and audience preferences.
Module 8 - Transport Management
Course content then shifts to the physical transportation of goods and materials, guiding candidates through the process of selecting appropriate transportations methods. The pros and cons of several primary transportation methods are examined, along with the potential benefits of third-party logistics and the concept of intermodal transport.
Module 9 - Human Resource Management
The HRM responsibilities of supply chain management personnel are then discussed, along with the criticality of cohesive and high-performing teams. Module Nine also discusses the development and implementation of an HR code of ethics, along with the benefits of building an ethical working culture.
Module 10 - Change Management
The benefits of acknowledging and accepting change as an inevitability are presented and examined in Module 10, which outlines several key factors in successful change management. Candidates also consider how change is necessary for organisations to grow, diversify and succeed, therefore must be embraced and not avoided.
Module 11 - Time Management
A crash-course introduction to the benefits of strategic time management follows in Module 11, in which candidates learn how to banish procrastination and use their time more efficiently. The importance of setting realistic and measurable goals is also discussed, along with how task prioritisation holds the key to balancing a busy workload.
Module 12 - Conflict Management
Learners then consider how a strategic and proactive approach to conflict management can benefit the business and its workforce alike. Key topics covered include the different stages of conflict, common types of workplace conflicts and strategies for preventing conflict from occurring in the first place.
Module 13 - Introduction to Warehouse Management
Warehouse management as part of a broader logistics and supply chain strategy is then discussed, along with a series of important activities that take place in a warehouse setting. The benefits of efficient warehouse operations are also discussed, along with the objectives of warehouse management in a supply chain context.
Module 14 - Warehouse Operations & Systems
A more detailed analysis of a warehouse operations follows in Module 14, which also brings a variety of storage systems and management systems into discussion. Candidates consider the potential benefits of centralised and decentralised warehouse operations, along with how to choose an appropriate warehousing strategy to achieve established objectives.
Module 15 - Warehouse Inventory Management
Module 15 takes a more focused look at inventory management activities and principles in a warehouse setting. The benefits of streamlined and efficient inventory management are discussed, alongside supply and demand buffers, the different types of stock carried in warehouses and more.
Module 16 - The Warehouse Inventory Cycle
A detailed breakdown of the warehouse inventory cycle and each of its stages is presented in Module 16, familiarising candidates with the journey of products as they pass through a warehouse. Additional topics covered include identifying demand, the receiving process, validating inventory in a warehouse and more.
Module 17 - Warehouse Inventory Tracking
Tools, techniques and strategies for accurate warehouse inventory tracking are then discussed, along with the criticality of monitoring inventory levels and movement of goods. Barcoding technology and its applications are also discussed, along with the benefits of barcoding and alternative approaches to inventory tracking.
Module 18 - Warehouse Material handling
Several essential warehouse material handling techniques and strategies are presented and examined in Module 18, which highlights the importance of efficient material handling for improved supply chain performance. Various additional activities within a warehouse are also discussed.
Module 19 - Using Information Technology in Supply Chain
The world’s growing reliance on information technology to support supply chain activities is explored in Module 19. Primary information systems that power the supply chain are presented and discussed, along with data capture, data communications and the potential disadvantages of reliance on IT systems.
Module 20 - Supply Chain Systems Design
Key considerations when establishing a supply chain system follow in Module 20, including the importance of selecting appropriate locations for physical premises. The functions and objectives of feasibility studies are also brought into discussion, along with the main components of an effective supply chain system.
Module 21 - Supply Chain Performance Measurement
Concluding the course, Module 21 guides candidates through the process of accurately and objectively assessing supply chain performance. The importance of proactive and continuous performance management is also discussed, along with tips and guidelines for driving improved performance and efficiency at all times.