This link on cross functional teams in the reading appears not to go anywhere.

http://yousigma.com/benchmarking/3mscrossfunctionalteams.html.

So, here are three articles that provide a comprehensive understanding of cross-functional teams and how they operate:

1. What Are Cross Functional Teams? - Forbes Advisor: This article explains that cross-functional teams are groups of people from various departments in an organizationsuch as marketing, product development, quality assurance, sales, and financewho work together to achieve a common goal.
2. What Are Cross-Functional Teams? (Benefits and Examples): This piece from Indeed.com discusses the importance of cross-functional teams in organizations that handle a wide variety of tasks."The article highlights the benefits of such teams, including resourceful problem-solving and effective communication²".
3. What are cross-functional teams? (Plus benefits and examples): This article also defines cross-functional teams and discusses their benefits."It emphasizes that these teams are designed to break down the silos inside the company structure and foster collaboration³."

These readings should give you a good understanding of what cross-functional teams are and how they operate. Open the hyperlink for each item to read the articles. Happy reading!

Discuss the individual contributions that could be made by a cross-functional team to the following list of activities. Assume the team consists of engineering, manufacturing, and supply management personnel. a. Specifications Development b. Market Analysis c. Productivity/cost improvements d. Make or buy analysis e. Determination of inventory levels

To kick this off let me say that being able to effectively participate and lead cross functional teams is critical to effectively implementing supply chain management. Cross functional equates to diversity meaning that you have individuals with different skill sets and motivations (based on their respective organizations). Harnessing this expertise and working through the natural barriers that exist is truly a challenge that requires effort to achieve the desired end state...that is to resolve issues and problems and/or to deliver viable alternative solutions. The discussion question reflects this diversity placing it in the context of specific teams and actions.