, SECTION A
QUESTION 1
1.1 INTRODUCTION
Supply Chain Management (SCM) has evolved into a critical function within modern
businesses, driven by globalization, technological advancements, and increasing
consumer demands for speed, reliability, and transparency. It encompasses the
planning, execution, and oversight of all activities involved in sourcing, procurement,
production, transportation, and delivery of goods and services from suppliers to end
customers. Effective supply chain management ensures that organizations can meet
customer expectations while optimizing costs, improving efficiency, and maintaining
a competitive advantage in the market (Christopher, 2016). In today’s dynamic
business environment, SCM is not merely a back-office function but a strategic driver
of organizational success. The integration of innovative technologies, effective
negotiation strategies, and environmental management practices within supply
chains has become essential to address the complexities of global trade, fluctuating
demand patterns, and sustainability requirements (Chopra & Meindl, 2019).
The growing reliance on technology and data analytics has transformed supply chain
operations, enabling companies to gain real-time visibility, improve forecasting
accuracy, and optimize inventory management. Simultaneously, the negotiation of
road freight contracts and agreements has become a vital component of cost
management and service delivery. Furthermore, the integration of Environmental
Management System (EMS) principles ensures that supply chain activities align with
global sustainability standards, reducing environmental impact while enhancing
corporate social responsibility. This paper critically examines innovative technology
trends, road freight negotiation strategies, and the EMS cycle in the context of
modern supply chain management, highlighting their significance for operational
excellence and sustainability.
1.2 INNOVATIVE AND NEW TECHNOLOGY TRENDS IN SUPPLY CHAIN
MANAGEMENT
QUESTION 1
1.1 INTRODUCTION
Supply Chain Management (SCM) has evolved into a critical function within modern
businesses, driven by globalization, technological advancements, and increasing
consumer demands for speed, reliability, and transparency. It encompasses the
planning, execution, and oversight of all activities involved in sourcing, procurement,
production, transportation, and delivery of goods and services from suppliers to end
customers. Effective supply chain management ensures that organizations can meet
customer expectations while optimizing costs, improving efficiency, and maintaining
a competitive advantage in the market (Christopher, 2016). In today’s dynamic
business environment, SCM is not merely a back-office function but a strategic driver
of organizational success. The integration of innovative technologies, effective
negotiation strategies, and environmental management practices within supply
chains has become essential to address the complexities of global trade, fluctuating
demand patterns, and sustainability requirements (Chopra & Meindl, 2019).
The growing reliance on technology and data analytics has transformed supply chain
operations, enabling companies to gain real-time visibility, improve forecasting
accuracy, and optimize inventory management. Simultaneously, the negotiation of
road freight contracts and agreements has become a vital component of cost
management and service delivery. Furthermore, the integration of Environmental
Management System (EMS) principles ensures that supply chain activities align with
global sustainability standards, reducing environmental impact while enhancing
corporate social responsibility. This paper critically examines innovative technology
trends, road freight negotiation strategies, and the EMS cycle in the context of
modern supply chain management, highlighting their significance for operational
excellence and sustainability.
1.2 INNOVATIVE AND NEW TECHNOLOGY TRENDS IN SUPPLY CHAIN
MANAGEMENT