1. Describe and define what is PEST analysis from a supply chain management perspective? What are the advantages of doing a PEST analysis? Give a concrete example.

 

2. What is supply chain mapping? What are the advantages of mapping a supply chain? Give a concrete example.

Part B:

CASE ANALYSIS (10 points)

Read the case below and answer the questions with concrete examples and details

Canadian manufacturers say supply chain disruptions are cutting into their products while raising costs, putting the recovery of the sector and the overall economy at risk.

A new survey by Canadian Manufacturers and Exporters found nine out of 10 companies in the sector are grappling with supply chain issues.

More than half said the disruptions are having a major or severe effect on operations.

"We're seeing long delays and higher costs," said Dennis Darby, president, and CEO of the manufacturing industry group. "There's just no slack in the system."

Demand for goods is strong but manufacturers just can't keep up with orders, Darby said.

Indeed, Canadian manufacturers have lost more than $10 billion in sales as a result of supply chain disruptions and are facing nearly $1 billion in increased costs, the report said. Eight in 10 said they have been forced to hike prices and delay fulfilling customer orders. The situation risks stalling Canada's economic recovery and could linger for several more months - or even longer, Darby said.

"There's a fair degree of pessimism," Darby said. "The majority of manufacturers don't think the supply chain issues will be resolved until 2023 or later." He added: "We're in for continued hurt." Evaluate Walmart's supply chain situation in the last 3 years. Do you think Walmart has continued to have good supply chain management compared to other Canadian companies? Why or why not?