The bullwhip effect, a phenomenon where small fluctuations in consumer demand le

The bullwhip effect, a phenomenon where small fluctuations in consumer demand lead to amplified swings in inventory levels and production orders, poses a significant challenge to businesses, particularly Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) participating in Enterprise Supply Development (ESD) programs in Africa. This research aims to investigate and propose a collaborative model for B2B online marketplaces that can effectively mitigate the bullwhip effect and enhance the sustainability of African SMEs.
Background of Study
– Economic growth and the role that SMEs play in driving economic growth especially in developing economies like Africa.
– The mortality rate / failure rate of SME businesses globally with particular focus on developing economis like Africa and its implications.
– Introduce the concept of summply chain management (SCM) including definition and how it plays a critical role in SME businesses.
 Challenges in SCM for SMEs
 Elaborate on Bull Whip Effect (BWE) as one of the challenges in SCM that this study will particularly focus on.
 Summary of research to date on BWE and its impact on SCM for SMEs.
Context of Study
– Introduce the concept of digital transformation in SCM, the importance of Technology, Gen AI and Big Data Analytics in resolving some of the challenges in SCM especially BWE.
– Challeges faced by SMEs globally and developing economis in the SCM.
– What has been the response of businesses and governments globally to try and address some of these challenges.
– Introduce the concept of Enterprise Supplier Development programmes and why they were introduced.
– Include some examples of ESD programmes introduced in different parts of the globe especially in developing countries and if possible comparison of business-led vs government-led ESD programmes.
– Success rate and challeanges of these ESD programmes.
Problem Statement
The bullwhip effect, exacerbated by information asymmetry, demand uncertainty, and order batching, often leads to overstocking, stockouts, and increased costs for SMEs. These challenges can hinder their growth, limit their competitiveness, and ultimately contribute to business failure. ESD programs, while intended to support SMEs, may inadvertently amplify these issues if not accompanied by effective strategies to address the bullwhip effect. Highlight the main objective of the study.
Research Questions
What are the primary and secondary questions
Research Objectives
What are the objectives and sub-objectives?
1. Identify the root causes of the bullwhip effect in African SMEs participating in ESD programs.
2. Analyze existing B2B online marketplace models and their effectiveness in mitigating the bullwhip effect.
3. Develop a collaborative model for B2B online marketplaces that addresses the specific challenges faced by African SMEs.
4. Evaluate the potential impact of the proposed model on the sustainability and competitiveness of African SMEs.
Research Methodology
This research will employ a mixed-methods approach, combining qualitative and quantitative research techniques.
Qualitative Research:
• In-depth interviews: Interviews will be conducted with SMEs, ESD program managers, and experts in supply chain management to gather insights into the challenges faced by SMEs and the effectiveness of current practices.
• Case studies: Case studies of successful and unsuccessful SMEs will be analyzed to identify factors contributing to their performance and the role of the bullwhip effect.
Quantitative Research:
• Survey: A survey will be administered to a sample of SMEs to collect data on their experiences with the bullwhip effect, the use of B2B online marketplaces, and their perceptions of the proposed collaborative model.
• Data analysis: Statistical analysis will be used to identify patterns, correlations, and significant relationships between variables.
Theoretical Framework
The research will be grounded in supply chain management theories, including:
• Demand forecasting: Theories related to demand forecasting techniques and their limitations in the context of African SMEs.
• Information sharing: Theories on the importance of information sharing and collaboration in supply chains.
• Inventory management: Theories on inventory control methods and their applicability to SMEs.
Theories can include Stakeholder Theory, Socio Technical Theory and System Theory.
Proposed Collaborative Model
The proposed collaborative model will incorporate the following elements:
1. Demand forecasting: Shared demand forecasting platforms that leverage data analytics and machine learning to improve demand prediction accuracy.
2. Inventory optimization: Collaborative tools for inventory optimization, considering factors such as lead times, demand variability, and safety stock levels.
3. Information sharing: Real-time information sharing platforms to facilitate transparency and coordination among supply chain partners.
4. Collaborative purchasing: Group purchasing arrangements to leverage economies of scale and reduce transaction costs.
5. Risk management: Mechanisms for identifying and mitigating supply chain risks, such as disruptions and price volatility.
Expected Outcomes
The research is expected to contribute to the following:
• A deeper understanding of the bullwhip effect and its impact on African SMEs participating in ESD programs.
• A practical collaborative model for B2B online marketplaces that can effectively address the challenges posed by the bullwhip effect.
• Policy recommendations for governments and ESD program managers to promote the adoption of the proposed model.
• Improved sustainability and competitiveness of African SMEs through enhanced supply chain resilience.
Significance
The research findings will have significant implications for SMEs operating in B2B online marketplaces. By mitigating the bullwhip effect, SMEs can improve their supply chain efficiency, reduce costs, and enhance customer satisfaction. Additionally, the proposed collaborative model can serve as a valuable reference for policymakers and industry organizations seeking to promote sustainable and resilient supply chains.
Timeline
[Insert a detailed timeline outlining the key research activities, including data collection, analysis, and report writing.]
Budget
[Insert a budget estimate for the research, including costs for data collection, analysis, and report preparation.]
By addressing the bullwhip effect and fostering collaboration among African SMEs, this research aims to contribute to the sustainable development and growth of the region’s business ecosystem.

2. Provide a brief 1-paragraph summary and introduction to your analysis of the

2. Provide a brief 1-paragraph summary and introduction to your analysis of the case study.
3. If you were in the position of Kathy Saxton, what are three possible alternatives?
4. What recommendations would you make to Scott Carpenter and why?
5. If the company goal is to reduce costs, is the WMP an appropriate method to accomplish this objective? Why or why not?
6. Should Kathy suggest a better method for reducing purchasing costs? Is any additional information required for Kathy to make her selection?
7. How can Kathy find out more information about the suppliers in a short period of time? What internal and external resources should she consider?
8. Include a conclusion and overview of your analysis.

2. Provide a brief 1-paragraph summary and introduction to your analysis of the

2. Provide a brief 1-paragraph summary and introduction to your analysis of the case study.
3. If you were in the position of Kathy Saxton, what are three possible alternatives?
4. What recommendations would you make to Scott Carpenter and why?
5. If the company goal is to reduce costs, is the WMP an appropriate method to accomplish this objective? Why or why not?
6. Should Kathy suggest a better method for reducing purchasing costs? Is any additional information required for Kathy to make her selection?
7. How can Kathy find out more information about the suppliers in a short period of time? What internal and external resources should she consider?
8. Include a conclusion and overview of your analysis.

Module 2 Discussion: The firm’s external environment Referring to the same comp

Module 2 Discussion: The firm’s external environment
Referring to the same company you selected in our first discussion board, identify one or two factors from the external environment that may have contributed to your company’s strategic issue. Explain how these factors influenced your company’s current situation.
Sorry I can’t come up with any factors regarding SE. Can you please refer from the class material? or you can ask me any questions and will get back to you

After reading the first two chapters in Pollard, how do you determine your value

After reading the first two chapters in Pollard, how do you determine your value? How do others see you? And how do you react to Pollard’s perspective of the role of diversity? Please write a 2-3 page APA respnse. Please include an APA Title and Reference page. Please incorporate scripture and the text in your response.
BOOK : C.W. Pollard (2009), The Soul of the Firm. Delta One Leadership Foundation.
ISBN: 978-0-578-04028-8
I do not have a copy of the book yet

Background In order to better understand the impact of technology on daily opera

Background
In order to better understand the impact of technology on daily operations, visit an Amazon fulfillment center and follow the path of products as they move through Amazon’s fulfillment centers, focusing on six main processes: Receive, Stow, Pick, Pack, SLAM, and Ship.
Instructions
Virtually visit an Amazon Fulfillment Center and assess the technology utilized in their operations, including fulfillment centers and the use of Prime Air. Go to https://amazontours.com/na/virtual and sign up for a virtual one-hour tours that will take you behind the scenes at Amazon’s fulfillment centers, using a combination of live streaming, videos, and 360° footage.
Once you have completed the tour, in two to three pages (APA format), describe the path of products as they move through Amazon’s fulfillment centers, conduct a SWOT analysis of the process, and what are they key technologies utilized to improve the supply chain.
Length: 2 pages minimum

Assume you are the packaging engineer for a large consumer products company. In

Assume you are the packaging engineer for a large consumer products company. In this company, the Packaging Design Briefs are initiated by the marketing group and forwarded to the Package Engineering group. You currently are working on three packaging design briefs. Copies of these design briefs are attached. Note that the marketing department has completed some information on each brief and the Package Engineering department will complete the remaining information.
1. Choose one brief and complete the information on the brief. Using what you have learned in the class, complete the information needed on the design brief. Please include justification of your responses when requested. You are making judgment calls based on the information that you have been given and also based on what we have learned in the class. You will submit three separate documents:
2. Complete a Power Point Presentation. The Power Point presentation should reflect the outcome of completing the design brief as well as other aspects you deem necessary in presenting, you need to have at least 10 slides, to include an introduction slide and a reference.
3. Complete a video for your presentation. You can record yourself (2-3 minutes) on a personal device (cell phone, laptop, tablet, etc) and upload it. (Do not use Kaltura for this assignment) If the file is too large, you can upload it to YouTube, then send me the link in the comments section of the assignment.
Once completed, upload the brief, presentation, and video for grading. Your responses will be graded based on your demonstration of the concepts studied in the class. Again, select only ONE brief to complete the final project.
Dont worry about the video presentation because I will do it. I will attach the brief I need filled out and do the powerpoint please

Near the end of our text, in Ch. 14, there will be content on how we can learn f

Near the end of our text, in Ch. 14, there will be content on how we can learn from risk management leaders. These are well-thought-out profitable companies. Please look at one of these companies and provide a descriiption of it that includes information about their business. Additional information can be found online about based on current events. We are not yet looking at risk management but only trying to gain some general information about them. The paper should be a minimum of 500 words, but not more than 1000 words.

Research the folowing question and post a summary of your research. One mana

Research the folowing question and post a summary of your research.
One manager states, “When a new system is proposed, I want a written report, not an oral presentation, which is like a sales pitch. I only want to see the facts about costs, benefits, and schedules.” Do you agree with that point of view? Explain.
Use a creative title for the subject of your post.
Length of your post should be a minimum of 200 words.
Cite all sources in APA format.