Activity 3

Activity 3

Analyzing Supply Chain Management Case Studies in the Creative Industry

Objective: To analyze real-world case studies of supply chain management in the creative industry, identifying best practices and lessons learned from both successful and unsuccessful examples.

Materials Needed:

  • Case study handouts (detailed descriptions of successful and unsuccessful supply chain management examples)
  • Access to the internet for additional research
  • Notebooks or digital devices for note-taking
  • Presentation tools (e.g., flip charts, markers, PowerPoint)

Duration: 2-3 hours

Instructions:

1.      Introduction (15 minutes)

    • Begin with a brief overview of the importance of supply chain management (SCM) in the creative industry.
    • Highlight key SCM components such as sourcing, production, distribution, technology integration, and sustainability.

2.      Case Study Distribution (15 minutes)

    • Divide participants into small groups (3-4 people per group).
    • Distribute different case study handouts to each group. Ensure a mix of successful and unsuccessful examples, such as LEGO and Forever 21.

3.      Group Analysis (45 minutes)

    • Instruct each group to read their case study carefully.
    • Ask them to discuss and answer the following questions within their groups:
      • What were the key SCM strategies or practices implemented in this case?
      • What challenges or issues did the company face in its supply chain?
      • What were the outcomes of these strategies or challenges?
      • What best practices can be identified from this case?
      • What lessons were learned from the failures or challenges?

4.      Presentation and Discussion (60 minutes)

    • Have each group present their findings to the larger group.
    • Encourage an open discussion after each presentation, allowing other participants to ask questions and provide additional insights.

5.      Reflection and Application (30 minutes)

    • Provide participants with a set of best practices and lessons learned from supply chain management in the creative industry.
    • Ask each group to reflect on their case study analysis and identify specific best practices and lessons that can be applied to their own or hypothetical creative industry projects.
    • Have participants brainstorm how they can implement these best practices and avoid the pitfalls discussed in the unsuccessful examples.

6.      Conclusion (15 minutes)

    • Summarize the key takeaways from the activity.
    • Emphasize the importance of continuous learning and adaptation in supply chain management.
    • Encourage participants to stay updated with the latest trends and technologies in SCM.

Example Case Studies:

Successful Example: LEGO's Supply Chain Management

  • Key Strategies and Practices:
    • Global distribution centers
    • Advanced ERP systems
    • Sustainability initiatives
    • Long-term supplier relationships
  • Outcomes:
    • Operational efficiency
    • Progress towards sustainability goals
    • Enhanced market responsiveness

Unsuccessful Example: Forever 21's Supply Chain Management

  • Key Issues:
    • Overexpansion without adequate SCM infrastructure
    • Reliance on outdated systems
    • Ethical concerns and poor quality control among suppliers
    • Inability to respond to market trends
  • Outcomes:
    • Financial losses and bankruptcy
    • Reputation damage

Group Analysis Questions:

1.      LEGO Case Study:

    • How did LEGO’s global distribution network contribute to its supply chain efficiency?
    • What role did technology (e.g., ERP systems) play in LEGO’s supply chain management?
    • How did LEGO’s commitment to sustainability impact its supply chain practices?
    • What lessons can be learned from LEGO’s approach to supplier relationships?

2.      Forever 21 Case Study:

    • What were the primary reasons for Forever 21’s supply chain challenges?
    • How did the lack of technological investment affect Forever 21’s supply chain efficiency?
    • What were the consequences of Forever 21’s ethical issues with suppliers?
    • How could Forever 21 have improved its supply chain management to avoid bankruptcy?

Best Practices and Lessons Learned:

  1. Technology Integration: Utilize advanced ERP systems and automation to enhance supply chain visibility and efficiency.
  2. Sustainability: Implement sustainable practices in sourcing and production to align with environmental goals and consumer values.
  3. Strong Supplier Relationships: Develop long-term, reliable partnerships with suppliers and conduct regular audits to ensure quality and ethical standards.
  4. Scalability: Ensure that the supply chain infrastructure can scale with business growth to avoid inefficiencies and bottlenecks.
  5. Responsiveness: Maintain a flexible supply chain that can quickly adapt to changing market conditions and consumer preferences.
By engaging in this activity, participants will gain a deeper understanding of effective supply chain management practices in the creative industry and learn how to apply these principles to their own work

Separate groups: All participants
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