Supply Chain

Where does a supply chain begin?

• in a supermarket or store

• at a factory

• with raw materials

• with products that are for sale

When does a supply chain end?

• when someone uses up a product

• when a consumer buys a finished product

• as soon as a factory makes a product

• whenever raw materials are used up

You buy a new pair of running shoes. How many supply chains are involved?

• one, because every pair of running shoes goes through the same supply chain

• none, because supply chains are part of the food we eat, not the clothes and shoes we buy

• two: one supply chain for the left shoe, and a different one for the right shoe

• at least three: one for the shoes, one for the laces, and one for the box or other packaging

What is MOST likely to happen if a supply chain slows down?

• Finished goods may not be ready in time for shipment.

• Workers spend more time on fewer items, improving quality.

• Finished goods use fewer raw materials, such as cotton or wood.

• Consumers become less interested in buying.

Phones and computers are examples of raw materials.

• True

• False

If a product isn’t ready in time, a company’s customers may buy from other companies instead.

• True

• False

Having an efficient supply chain can help a company lower its costs.

• True

• False

What do MOST manufacturers use to keep track of what they have in stock?

• abacus

• robots

• pen and paper

• software

Which of these is a raw material?

• wood

• nails

• cloth

• paint

Nick knows he has a big project due on Thursday, but he waits until Wednesday at midnight to start it. His teacher says, “This isn’t your best work.” What does Nick MOST need to improve?

• establishing rapport with his teacher

• managing his time

• monitoring his supply chain

• negotiating new deadlines