Discussion 1: The agile supply chain utilizes the idea of "speed to market" in order to get the product to the end-consumer as quickly as possible as we often see happen when new technology becomes available (i.e. cell phones, flat screen TV's, etc). How might both the manufacturer and the end-consumer be harmed utilizing this concept?

Discussion 2: Why is time important to competitive advantage? Identify and explain six key contributions that speed can make to logistics and supply chain strategy. Document your sources.

Discussion 3: The manufacturing of products such as cars or computers has shifted from take-what-you-get to made- to-order. Identify three ways this change has been beneficial to the logistics management process?

Discussion 4: Explain the thinking behind quick response (QR) logistics. How could QR help a retailer to plan and control product lines for a new fashion season? Document your sources.

Discussion 5: Partnerships may bring added value to strategic supply relationships, and have been described using seven factors. Identify those factors and describe each while providing an explanation of how each provides value within the cooperative relationship. Document your sources.

Discussion 6: Supply base rationalism seeks to reduce the suppliers in which an organization deals directly to a smaller number of strategic suppliers. How does this process work? What are the benefits to each of the players in this relationship? Document your sources.

Discussion 7: The usage and significance of third-party logistics (3PL) services has grown dramatically during the past two decades or so. Explain why this has occurred and what the benefits are, if any? Document your sources.

Discussion 8: Based on the course material we have covered, find a Forbes article or video (within the last 3 years) that deals with some of the key ideas in the class (such as operations, procurement, supply chain alignment with business strategy, etc.). Summarize the article (or video), relate it to a course concept or key point, and discuss how the actual practice (as demonstrated by the Forbes Material) relates to the theory presented in our course. Provide the citation and location of where you found the article.