Advanced Techniques for Supply Chain Management

Code

BUSI4610

School

Nottingham University Business School China

Level

4

Credits

20

Semesters

Spring China

Summary

The emphasis in this module is on formulating and solving models with statistical, machine learning, information systems, and system dynamics tools. The topics covered include: introduction to supervised and unsupervised machine learning, model quality dimensionality, principal component analysis, clustering, and classifications, comparing predictor accuracy, sensitivity and specificity, supply chain IT systems including manufacturing execution systems (MES), warehouse management systems (WMS), and transportation management systems (TMS), supply chain network design, causal loop diagrams, stock and flow charts, common structures and behaviour in system dynamics, the bullwhip effect and supply chain dynamics 

Target Students

Business School MSc students subject to compliance with module choice requirements, as listed in the degree programme specification. In addition, other MA/MSc students subject to the discretion of the Director of MSc Programmes

Classes

• One 3-hour lecture each week for 11 weeks
• One 2-hour computing each week for 3 weeks
• One 1-hour computing each week for 5 weeks

Total Contact Hours = 44 hours (33 hours of lectures = 3-hour lecture x 11 weeks) + 11 hours computer lab sessions (5x1 hour + 3x2 hours)

Assessment

• 30% Coursework 1: Group Coursework (3,000 words)
• 70% Exam 1 (2-hour): 2 Hour Examination

Educational Aims

Learning Outcomes

Knowledge and understanding: This module develops a knowledge and understanding of:

The management of the supply chain

The dynamics of the global economy and international business &/or an awareness 
of cultural, legal/regulatory, political, and economic differences across countries &/or 
an appreciation of management issues from a global perspective.

Customers and stakeholders - customer expectations, service and orientation

The management of logistics

The management of projects

Information systems and business intelligence - the development, management, application and implementation of information systems and their impact upon organisations
  
Tools and techniques for transforming (big) data into useful information for business analysis and decision support

Communications – the comprehension and use of relevant communications for application in business and management, including the use of digital tools

The importance of sustainability issues, including an understanding of the challenges 
and opportunities arising from the activities of people and organisations on the economic, social and environmental conditions of the future.

Intellectual Skills: This module develops:

Being able to think critically and be creative: manage the creative processes in self and others; organise thoughts, analyse, synthesise and critically appraise. This includes the capability to identify assumptions, evaluate statements in terms of evidence, detect false logic or reasoning, identify implicit values, define terms adequately and generalise appropriately

Being able to solve complex problems and make decisions: establish criteria, using appropriate decision-making techniques including identifying, formulating and solving business problems; and the ability to create, identify and evaluate options; the ability to implement and review decisions

Using information and knowledge effectively in order to abstract meaning from information and to share knowledge, including the use of quantitative skills

Professional Practical Skills: This module develops:
research design, the collection and analysis of qualitative data, synthesis and reporting

The ability to conduct research and enquiry into business and management issues either individually or as part of a team through research design, the collection and analysis of quantitative data, synthesis and reporting

Effective performance within team environments and the ability to recognise and utilise individuals' contributions in group processes and to negotiate and persuade or influence others; team selection, delegation, development and management.  Leadership and performance management: selecting appropriate leadership style for different situations; setting objectives, motivating, monitoring performance, coaching and mentoring

The ability to recognise the need for and initiate change and to be able to manage change

The ability to recognise and address ethical dilemmas, corporate social responsibility and sustainability issues, applying ethical and organisational values to situations and choices

Transferable (key) Skills: This module develops:

Effective communication: networking, listening, oral and written communication of complex ideas and arguments, using a range of media, including the preparation of business reports

High personal effectiveness: critical self-awareness, self-reflection and self-management; time management; conflict resolution, displaying commercial acumen, the ability to continue to learn through reflection on practice and experience

Soft skills: understanding the needs of others and empathy towards them; sensitivity to diversity in people and in different situations
Other: The ability to apply management science techniques

Conveners