Introduction to Supply Chain Management

Core Course 1 - MBA DMSC Program

Distribution & Logistics Management
Real-World Case Studies
IIT Madras Faculty
Industry Applications
Digital Integration
Career Advancement

This course introduces the fundamentals of supply chains, explaining how goods and services move from suppliers to customers. It covers planning, sourcing, production, distribution, and logistics with real-world applications and digital integration.

Duration:8 weeks

Credits:6 credits

Level:Graduate

Format:Online

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IITMadrasSupplyChainLogisticsMaritime

Why This Course is Essential?

Career Growth

Develop skills that are in high demand across maritime, logistics, and supply chain industries.

Foundation Knowledge

Build a strong foundation in supply chain operations, understanding how goods flow from suppliers to customers in real-world scenarios.

Digital Integration

Learn how technology and digital tools are transforming supply chain management and logistics operations.

Who Should Take This Course?

1. Maritime Professionals Seeking Supply Chain Foundation

Port managers, shipping executives, and maritime professionals looking to understand supply chain fundamentals.

2. Logistics Managers Wanting to Enhance Skills

Logistics and operations managers seeking to deepen their understanding of supply chain management.

3. Engineering Graduates Aiming for Supply Chain Roles

Engineering graduates looking to transition into supply chain and logistics management roles.

4. Business Professionals Seeking Supply Chain Knowledge

Business professionals wanting to understand supply chain operations and their impact on business success.

Hours of Content

Modules

Case Studies

IIT Madras

Certificate

Curriculum

Module 1: Supply Chain Fundamentals

What is Supply Chain Management? – Understanding the basics of supply chain operations and their importance in business.
Supply Chain Components – Suppliers, manufacturers, distributors, retailers, and customers in the supply chain.
Supply Chain Flows – Material flow, information flow, and financial flow in supply chains.

Module 2: Planning & Strategy

Demand Planning – Forecasting techniques and demand management strategies.
Supply Planning – Production planning, capacity management, and resource allocation.
Strategic Sourcing – Supplier selection, evaluation, and relationship management.

Module 3: Operations Management

Production Operations – Manufacturing processes, quality control, and operational efficiency.
Inventory Management – Inventory control, safety stock, and optimization techniques.
Warehouse Operations – Warehousing strategies, layout design, and material handling.

Module 4: Distribution & Logistics

Distribution Networks – Distribution channel design and network optimization.
Transportation Management – Mode selection, route optimization, and carrier management.
Last-Mile Delivery – Final delivery strategies and customer service excellence.

Module 5: Digital Transformation

Technology in Supply Chain – ERP systems, WMS, TMS, and other digital tools.
Data Analytics – Big data, predictive analytics, and business intelligence in supply chain.
Emerging Technologies – IoT, AI, blockchain, and automation in supply chain operations.

Module 6: Performance & Optimization

Key Performance Indicators – Measuring supply chain performance and efficiency metrics.
Cost Optimization – Cost reduction strategies and value engineering in supply chain.
Continuous Improvement – Lean principles, Six Sigma, and process improvement methodologies.

Module 7: Risk Management

Supply Chain Risks – Identifying and managing various risks in supply chain operations.
Resilience Strategies – Building resilient supply chains and business continuity planning.
Crisis Management – Managing disruptions and recovery strategies in supply chains.

Module 8: Maritime Applications

Maritime Supply Chains – Special considerations for maritime and shipping supply chains.
Port Operations – Port logistics, cargo handling, and terminal operations.
Global Trade – International trade, customs, and cross-border supply chain management.

Course Learning Outcomes

By the end of this course, you will have gained comprehensive knowledge and practical skills in the subject area.

What You'll Master:

Core concepts and theoretical foundations
Practical applications and case studies
Industry best practices and methodologies
Problem-solving and analytical skills

Learn More About MBA DMSC Program

This Course is Part of the MBA DMSC Program

This course is one of 20 core courses in the MBA in Digital Maritime & Supply Chain Management program at IIT Madras. To take this course, you need to enroll in the complete MBA DMSC program.

Complete Curriculum

20 core courses + 12 electives designed by IIT Madras faculty

IIT Madras Degree

Earn a prestigious MBA degree from India's premier technical institute

Industry Ready

Practical skills and knowledge for maritime and supply chain leadership

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