Student: An Ly Le
ID: 30080208

Section 1: 1. Explain integrations and the role they play in connecting a corporation.

Integration allows separate systems to communicate directly with each other, eliminating the need for manual entry into multiple systems
Forward integration: takes information entered into a given system and sends it automatically to all downstream systems and processes.
Backward integration: takes information entered into a given system and sends it automatically to all upstream systems and processes.

The role they play in connecting a corporation:
Enterprise systems can manage information across the entire enterprise, allowing users to view every detail of business operations.
Enterprise systems are often available as a generic, but highly customizable, group of programs for business functions such as accounting, manufacturing and marketing.
Integrations are achieved by using middleware.
Middleware translates information between disparate systems

2. Describe supply chain management (SCM) and its role in supporting business operations.

Supply chain management (SCM) the management of information flows between and among activities in a supply chain to maximize total supply chain effectiveness and profitability.

Role in the supporting business operations:
Materials flow from suppliers and their ‘upstream’ suppliers at all levels
Transformation of materials into semi-finished and finished products through the organization’s own production process
Distribution of products to customers and their ‘downstream’ customers at all levels

3. Identify the benefits and challenges of SCM along with its future.
Benefits:
Supply chain visibility the ability to view all areas up and down the supply chain in real time
Bullwhip effect occurs when distorted product demand information ripples from one partner to the next