Chapter 8 - Minicase 1

Quantum Corporation Streamlined Its Supply Chain

In preparation for answering the questions, review the Quantum Corporation web site.

1. Identify the internal and external parts of the supply chain that were enhanced with the system.

   Internally, the data accuracy improved significantly: from 10% to almost 100%. That improved operations, reduced costs, and improved product quality. Customer satisfaction improvement is the end goal and it was reached.

   Externally, for the suppliers, proactive problem prevention were enhanced. Additionally, suppliers see production data for longer future periods, as well as accurate inventory on hand at Quantum.

2. Enter categoric.com and find information about Categoric Alerts. Describe the capability of the product.

   The product checks for data errors: missing, conflicts. It also reports the finding to its customers.

3. Explain how purchasing was improved.

   Purchased was improved through decreasing the time to order, and producing more accurate data.

4. Describe how Quantum’s customers are being better served now.

   With faster delivery, exact product delivery of ordered goods, and competitive prices Quantum’s customers were receiving better service. Quantum has to pass its saving on to its customer because it operates in a very competitive business. IBM, Seagate, and several other large organizations compete in the market.

5. Identify the EC solutions used in this case.

   The EC solutions include upstream automation and Supply Chain Management.