How do supply chain management systems coordinate planning, production, and logistics with suppliers?

a) Define a supply chain and identify each of its components.

b) Explain how supply chain management systems help reduce the bullwhip effect and how they provide value for a business.

c) Define and compare supply chain planning systems and supply chain execution systems.

d) Describe the challenges of global supply chains and how Internet technology can help companies manage them better.

e) Distinguish between a push-based and pull-based model of supply chain management and explain how contemporary supply chain management systems facilitate a pull-based model.