Achieving a sustainable competitive advantage for companies in today’s fast-paced global economy is a full-time pursuit. For many organizations, good supply chain management practices can make the difference between growth and stagnation. There are many facets to developing world-class supply chain management capabilities. One of the most important activities a company can pursue to develop and implement best practices is leveraging well-organized, well-scoped projects that are relevant to a company’s strategic objectives. The outcomes from projects provide insight, innovation, and opportunity for improved operations. The project process itself is also a significant vehicle to advance the skills and acumen of supply chain management leaders and practitioners.
This philosophy is at the core of the project-based practicum curriculum in the supply chain management program at the Poole College of Management at NC State University. Engaging students with hands-on experience solving real-world business challenges provides the backbone for an industry-relevant education, and is a primary method for developing the supply chain management leaders of tomorrow. In fact, many colleges and universities are working closely with industry to address the complex challenges seen in today’s global economy. Through teamwork and applying robust project-management practices, both students and supply chain management professionals can make significant contributions to a company’s competitiveness with innovations realized through ambitious projects.
Recognition for these successes, as well as the lessons-learned from failures, is important to support an ongoing culture of continuous improvement and progress. With this in mind, the Supply Chain Resource Cooperative at NC State University is proud to partner with Supply & Demand Chain Executive magazine for the 2017 Supply & Demand Chain Executive's 100 Great Supply Chain Projects competition. The SDCE 100 spotlights successful and transformational projects that deliver value to enterprises across the range of supply chain functions. The supply chain projects featured in this awards program offer a forward-looking perspective for industry on new opportunities designed to drive operational success. NC State University supply chain management professors and key executive practicum advisors will participate in the review process following the submission deadline in collaboration with the editors and staff of Supply & Demand Chain Executive magazine.
“This is the first year that a university has a part of the judging process and we’re pleased to work with Supply & Demand Chain Executive magazine to identify and celebrate success in the supply chain management field,” said Dana Magliola, director of the Supply Chain Resource Cooperative at NC State University. “Companies are always seeking to set themselves apart, so it is important to create the kind of environment where leadership is willing to risk failure and try new things to achieve innovation.”
Supply & Demand Chain Executive magazine will be accepting submissions for top projects online through March 31. Recipients of the 2017 SDCE 100 will be announced on SDCExec.com and in the June issue of Supply & Demand Chain Executive magazine. More information about the Supply Chain Resource Cooperative at NC State University can be found at go.NCSU.edu/SupplyChain.
Dana A. Magliola is the director of the Supply Chain Resource Cooperative at NC State University’s Poole College of Management.
