MNP3703 ASSIGNMENT 2
2024
SEMESTER 1
QUESTION AND ANSWERS
Question 1
Based on the case study detailing the longstanding supplier relationship between
Caterpillar Inc (CAT) and Barloworld Equipment, identify and discuss three product
characteristics from the strategic partnership quadrant in the Bensaou supplier
relationship model that are evident in this case study. Provide three examples from the
case study to support your answer. (4 marks)
The Bensaou Supplier Relationship Model identifies four quadrants, one of which is the strategic
partnership quadrant. In the case study of Caterpillar Inc (CAT) and Barloworld Equipment,
three product characteristics from the strategic partnership quadrant are evident:
1. Joint Product Development: The case study highlights joint product development as a key
characteristic. For example, the development of the Cat 6015B Hydraulic Shovel involved
collaboration between CAT and Barloworld Equipment to meet specific customer needs.
2. Information Sharing: The strategic partnership involves extensive information sharing. An
example is the sharing of market intelligence and customer feedback, which allows both
companies to align their strategies and offerings to meet customer demands effectively.
3. Long-Term Commitment: The case study demonstrates a long-term commitment between
CAT and Barloworld Equipment. This is evident in their continuous collaboration over several
decades, indicating a commitment to mutual success and growth.
These characteristics exemplify the strategic partnership quadrant in the Bensaou model,
showcasing the depth and collaborative nature of the relationship between Caterpillar Inc and
Barloworld Equipment.
Question 2
, The Bensaou supplier relationship model distinguishes between tangible and intangible
aspects that the buyer and supplier invest in their relationship. Underline which tangible
investments were made by both CAT and Barloworld Equipment at the Motheo mine. (4
marks)
CAT's Tangible Investments:
Machinery and equipment provided to the mine
Spare parts and maintenance resources
Physical infrastructure and facilities
Barloworld Equipment's Tangible Investments:
Capital expenditure on equipment and machinery
Inventory of spare parts and consumables
Physical infrastructure and maintenance resources
These tangible investments represent the physical and measurable resources allocated by both
CAT and Barloworld Equipment to support their relationship with the Motheo mine, as per the
Bensaou model.
Question 3
Consult two additional resources than those provided in the case study to explain the
reasons for the formation of the joint venture, Barzem. (4 marks)
Barzem was formed as a joint venture to leverage the expertise and resources of the partnering
companies.
It allowed the companies to share risks and costs associated with the project.
The joint venture provided access to new markets and opportunities that may have been difficult
to access individually.
By combining forces, the companies could benefit from each other's strengths and mitigate their
weaknesses.
2024
SEMESTER 1
QUESTION AND ANSWERS
Question 1
Based on the case study detailing the longstanding supplier relationship between
Caterpillar Inc (CAT) and Barloworld Equipment, identify and discuss three product
characteristics from the strategic partnership quadrant in the Bensaou supplier
relationship model that are evident in this case study. Provide three examples from the
case study to support your answer. (4 marks)
The Bensaou Supplier Relationship Model identifies four quadrants, one of which is the strategic
partnership quadrant. In the case study of Caterpillar Inc (CAT) and Barloworld Equipment,
three product characteristics from the strategic partnership quadrant are evident:
1. Joint Product Development: The case study highlights joint product development as a key
characteristic. For example, the development of the Cat 6015B Hydraulic Shovel involved
collaboration between CAT and Barloworld Equipment to meet specific customer needs.
2. Information Sharing: The strategic partnership involves extensive information sharing. An
example is the sharing of market intelligence and customer feedback, which allows both
companies to align their strategies and offerings to meet customer demands effectively.
3. Long-Term Commitment: The case study demonstrates a long-term commitment between
CAT and Barloworld Equipment. This is evident in their continuous collaboration over several
decades, indicating a commitment to mutual success and growth.
These characteristics exemplify the strategic partnership quadrant in the Bensaou model,
showcasing the depth and collaborative nature of the relationship between Caterpillar Inc and
Barloworld Equipment.
Question 2
, The Bensaou supplier relationship model distinguishes between tangible and intangible
aspects that the buyer and supplier invest in their relationship. Underline which tangible
investments were made by both CAT and Barloworld Equipment at the Motheo mine. (4
marks)
CAT's Tangible Investments:
Machinery and equipment provided to the mine
Spare parts and maintenance resources
Physical infrastructure and facilities
Barloworld Equipment's Tangible Investments:
Capital expenditure on equipment and machinery
Inventory of spare parts and consumables
Physical infrastructure and maintenance resources
These tangible investments represent the physical and measurable resources allocated by both
CAT and Barloworld Equipment to support their relationship with the Motheo mine, as per the
Bensaou model.
Question 3
Consult two additional resources than those provided in the case study to explain the
reasons for the formation of the joint venture, Barzem. (4 marks)
Barzem was formed as a joint venture to leverage the expertise and resources of the partnering
companies.
It allowed the companies to share risks and costs associated with the project.
The joint venture provided access to new markets and opportunities that may have been difficult
to access individually.
By combining forces, the companies could benefit from each other's strengths and mitigate their
weaknesses.
