MT438-1: Conduct observation and data collection activities supporting initial requirements specification and understanding of data within a real-world supply chain.

Over the past couple of weeks, you have been introduced to the main concepts of supply chain analytics (SCA). You have also started to see how SCA is applied in practice. This paper will help you reflect and research further on these important SCA concepts.

Consider the following questions. Then, use headers to structure your work, compose your original narrative, and use online research to strengthen weak areas of your narrative as you edit your coverage of these topics. They are as follows:

SCA Introduction

How does supply chain analytics (SCA) help an organization achieve excellence? What does excellence have to do with competitive advantage?

SCA Practice

In practice, SCA includes the use of analytical tools such as methods and statistics. Select one of the tools from Table 2.3 and cover the following from your reading and additional online research:

What category is your tool aligned with from descriptive, predictive, or prescriptive? What does your selected category mean in the real world? What is the history of your selected tool, such as who invented it or how was it developed over time? How could you apply this tool in your own organization at work?

Comparison

Review these provided resources. Now, compare SCA Introduction and SCA Practice:

• How do introduction efforts prepare the way for success in practice efforts?
• What is the relationship, or connections, between excellence, quality, and the use of SCA tools within a business?