Requirement #4 – Evolve
The dynamic nature of the supply chain field means that new practices, technologies, and strategies are constantly being developed. To remain relevant to the employer base and effectively prepare students for career opportunities, SCM curricula must evolve by supplementing foundational content with industry best practices and emerging topics.
An increasingly important area is risk management. Global supply chains and lean operations intensify the risk of disruptions, so SCM programs must ensure students gain a holistic view of risk. Cook notes: “Our students need to learn how companies monitor risks, react to incidents, and rebound quickly.”
Another area that deserves more attention is the last leg or ‘one-hundred feet’ of the supply chain. Esper highlights the need to teach students the link between in-store logistics and on-shelf availability. “Given our retail focus at Arkansas, we emphasize supply chain beyond the dock, going all the way to the shelf. I don’t think that’s common in SCM education.”
As the “Big Data” promise becomes a reality, SCM students will also benefit from a more robust set of analytical tools. Programs must prepare to move beyond Excel spreadsheet- and Access database- driven analysis. More sophisticated tools and analytical techniques should be a curriculum priority.
And because SCM is taking on a broader strategic role in organizations, undergraduate programs must also help students develop general management skills. A stronger focus on holistic thinking, cross-functional decision making, and leadership development will prepare SCM students for career progression. Ultimately, SCM programs must teach students to engage in big picture thinking and act in the best interest of the firm, rather than as an isolated supply chain function.
