The scope of supply chains discussed in this course includes both manufacturing chains and distribution channels. Supply chains differ in their cost-responsiveness tradeoffs. In this course, we will discuss fulfillment chains, which are usually cost efficient, and agile chains, which are responsive to volatile market conditions. In addition, this course will cover topics in industry economics that are related to supply chain integration and disintegration （整合與反整合）.
This course emphasizes modeling and analysis and is not an introductory course to supply chain management. There are group study assignments and a term paper study and presentation. Logistics is not in the scope of this course.