Introduction to Purchasing and Supply Chain Management
This course will focus on Purchasing and Supply Chain Management (SCM) and the contributory role that each plays in developing a successful domestic and international Supply Chain strategy for an organization. Also presented is the impact they have on the competitiveness, success and profitability of a firm and its strategic partners. Additional topics included are a brief history, collaboration, supplier evaluation and selection techniques, negotiation strategies and the increased utilization of systems integration. Strategic versus tactical functionality is covered along with worldwide business dynamics, product flow, transportation, inventory control, warehousing, analytical tools, and finally future trends.
Subject Code: BLM
Course Number: 234
Credits: 3
Lecture Hours 3
Course Learning Outcomes:
1. Explain the objectives associated with Purchasing and Supply Chain Management (SCM) from a domestic and international perspective.
2. Use the specific terminology and nomenclature associated with Operations and SCM.
3. Describe the specific concepts associated with SCM.
4. Summarize the unique opportunities and challenges Purchasing has in developing SCM Strategic Partnership.
5. Explain how Purchasing is instrumental in creating customer value.
6. Explain how Purchasing is instrumental in creating a competitive advantage for a firm.
7. Compare and contrast domestic versus international business practices (language barriers, cultural differences, infrastructure, currency valuations, social unrest, customs clearance, laws, etc.
8. Express the need for Purchasing team members to be ever cognizant of their responsibilities to the organization (legal, contractual, ethical, social).
9. Explain Purchasing’s influence in the organization in such areas as product design and development, scheduling, raw materials, inventory control, information systems, sales, forecasting, etc.
10. Prepare a variety of analyses utilizing problem solving techniques and analytical skills.
Effective Term: Fall 2025
Tutoring Services
Tutoring for all GCC students is available free of charge by professional and peer tutors. We are offering tutoring online for: accounting, math, writing, chemistry, physics, general biology, anatomy & physiology, American Sign Language, and success skills.
