Chapter1：1.Why can the current movement toward establishing supply chains be characterized as a revolution?Because the current movement toward establishing supply chains has reshaped contemporary strategic thinking。Two massive shifts, supply chain revolution and a related logistical renaissance, in expectation and practice concerning the performance of business operations are highly interrelated but they are significantly different aspects of contemporary strategic thinking.2.Compare the concept of a modern supply chain with more traditional distribution channels. Be specific regarding similarities and differences.Traditional distribution channels typically had an order fulfillment time of 15—30 days. But if something went wrong, this time would increase dramatically. It was a common practice to maintain inventory at every stage of the supply chain like retailers ， wholesalers, and manufacturers. The market was characterized by scarcity to the primary goal of traditional model was to ensure availability of products 。 However, today customers want more options in product offerings. Modern supply chain is geared towards meeting the changing consumer needs 。 Transportation capacity and operational performance has become more reliable and economical. Logistical systems are capable of capable of delivering products at exact times. So customer orders can be fulfilled faster. With massive development in information technology ， the need to maintain inventory has reduced dramatically 。 The occurrence of failures, characteristic of traditional supply chain， has been replaced by a commitment towards zero—defect of six sigma performance 。 In essence a high level of performance is achieved at a lower total cost with commitmen...
