First discussion:

1. Why are many contemporary executives using a hybrid approach to decision-making authority in their supply management; and how has the World Wide Web influenced the growth of supply chain management?

2. Why is the position of supply management within the corporation's organizational structure important; and why is the organizational structure an important issue in managing the purchasing and supply function effectively?

Second discussion:

1. Describe the principal differences between transactional and collaborative relationships; identify the key benefits of collaborative relationships; and describe how alliances fundamentally differ from collaborative relationships.

2. What are the purposes of specifications; what common problems are encountered in developing specifications, and how can specifications limit competition?