Online CORE Questions Video

Requesting and Testing Samples from All Possible Supplier Manufacturing Locations: This would have ensured that DEF Inc. tested the quality of products from the actual production facility, not just the sample facility.

Requesting Larger Samples: While this might help, it doesn't address the issue of different production environments potentially affecting quality.

Requiring Assurance from Supplier: This is important but not sufficient by itself. The assurance doesn't substitute for actual testing from the correct facility.

Stricter Quality Controls at Receiving Dock: This is a reactive measure and doesn't prevent the problem from occurring in the first place.

References

Monczka, R. M., Handfield, R. B., Giunipero, L. C., & Patterson, J. L. (2016). Purchasing and Supply Chain Management. Cengage Learning.

Burt, D. N., Petcavage, S. D., & Pinkerton, R. L. (2010). Supply Management. McGraw-Hill Education.

Utilizing a freight forwarder can help ensure timely deliveries and reasonable transportation costs. Freight forwarders are experts in logistics and can manage the complexities of international shipping, including scheduling, tracking, and consolidating shipments to optimize costs. They can also provide valuable insights and support to navigate customs and other regulatory requirements.

References

International Federation of Freight Forwarders Associations (FIATA). Role of Freight Forwarders.

CIPS (Chartered Institute of Procurement & Supply). Managing Global Logistics and Transportation.

After filing a 409 report with the SEC, the procurement officer's next step should be to document a corrective action plan. This plan outlines the steps that will be taken to address the missed supplier deliveries and ensure that such issues do not recur. The plan should include root cause analysis, actions to mitigate the risk of future delays, and a timeline for implementation. Reviewing legal options, changing contracts, or terminating supplier contracts may be components of the corrective action plan, but documenting the plan is the immediate next step to systematically address the issue and communicate internally and externally as required.

References:

Institute for Supply Management (ISM). (2020). ISM Glossary of Key Supply Management Terms.

Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) Regulations.

Cost Savings Reporting: Accurate cost savings reporting is essential for demonstrating the value that supply management brings to the organization.

Alignment on Definitions: When the executive team and internal stakeholders are aligned on the definitions of cost savings, it ensures that the reported savings are understood and accepted across the organization.

Value Demonstration: This alignment shows that supply management is effectively contributing to the company’s financial performance and strategic goals.

Other Considerations: While auditability, baseline adjustments, and risk management are important, the primary reason for alignment is to clearly demonstrate the value added by supply management.

References

ISM Professional Series: Cost Management

CIPS Knowledge on Financial Management in Procurement