1. Walmart has been able to achieve respectable leadership in relail because of iit focus on it supply chain management.

Dis cuss in detail distribution and logistic system adopt by Walmart? DISTRIBUTION SYSTEM Procured goods directly from manufacturers. Establish long term relationship with vendors. Barcode Technology. Hand-Held computer system. LOGISTICS MANAGEMENT Distribution centers were serviced by more than 3500 company owned trucks. Hired only experienced drivers. Drivers had to report their hours of service to a coordinator daily. Private Fleet Driver Handbook. Cross- Docking

2 The use of innovative and information technology had benefited Walmart supply chain management. In the light of the above statement briefly explain how it benefited Walmart logistic and inventory management?

Information technologies benefit in Inventory management

1. Satellite communication system. Expansion of Wal-mart stores in the US Wal-mart set up its own SCS in 1983

By using IT capabilities Wal-Mart check & make the availability of customers demand. Automated Reordering System. Entered into collaboration with P & G Maintaining the inventories in its stores ARS as a link b/w P&G and all computers, stores & distribution channels Radio frequency system. Proofs to be magic wand Helps in keeping track of the inventory in stores Algorithm system to forecast exact quantities. Centralized inventory data system Bar Coding & fixed optical reader for efficient picking, receiving & proper inventory control & for physical counting of inventory. Internet enabled technologies.

Information technologies benefit in logistic management

Accelerated Delivery system Various technologies made supply chain more convenient Irrespective of geographical area Cross docking Make distribution process more efficient. Finished goods directly supplied to customers from manufacturing plant. Reduces handling & storage of finished goods. Eliminating the role of distribution centers &stores.

 By making effective use of computers in all its companys operation, WalMart was successful in providing uninterrupted services to its customers, supplier, stock holders and trading partners. 3 What were the supply chain management process adopted by Wal-Mart and how far were they effective?Dicuss. 1- Procurement and Distribution. Procured Directly from manufacturers. Generally, preferred local and regional vendor and suppliers. Use of barcode technology and hand held computer system. How it is effective? Low price to customers. Less cost effective. Help supervisor to monitor their employees closely. Help to satisfy customer need quickly. 2-Logistic Management Use more than 3,500 trucks for transportation. Hire only experienced driver. Transfer from supply chain to demand chain. Use five type of cross docking. How it is effective? Goods picked directly from manufacturer. Reduce the handling and storage charges. 3-Inventory Management Use of IT and Communication system. Setup own satellite communication.

 Collaboration with P&G. Use of algorithm system and bar-coding system. Tie-up with Atlas Commerce. How it is effective? Help to communicate with stores. Help to reduce unproductive inventory. Help in Distribution of needed product. Help in accurate distribution of goods. 4. What was the nature of benefits derived by Wal-mart from the efficient supply chain management practices and how far it has contributed to its sustainable competitive advantage? Explain. Low transportation cost(3% as compared to 5%) Reduction in lead time (within 48 hours) Wal-Mart can replenish the shelves four times faster than its competitors Purchase huge quantities Good bargaining power (price variation) competitive price (higher discounts) benefit to consumers Accurate forecasting of inventory levels Increased warehouse space Reduction in safety stock Better working capital utilization Elimination of old stocks and maintained quality of goods