Adequate Screen Time for Success in Supply Chain Management?
The pervasive presence of screens in our lives, from smartphones and computers to wearable devices and television sets, has significantly increased the amount of time we spend engrossed in digital content. This is especially true for those learning about supply chain management and other professions, with over 4 billion internet users spending an average of 6 hours daily on their devices, as reported by Global Web Index and We Are Social [Source: https://www.globalwebindex.com/ and https://wearesocial.com/us/blog/2018/01/global-digital-report-2018]. The proliferation of IoT connected devices is also on the rise, with the number of IoT devices predicted to reach 31 billion by 2020, and potentially 75 billion by 2025 [Source: statistic.com].
However, the question remains: Is it best to acquire knowledge and gain experience in supply chain management solely through screens, or is hands-on experience and interaction more valuable?
The importance of hands-on experience in supply chain management cannot be overstated. Practical training, such as internships or job rotations, offers professionals the opportunity to develop essential operational skills and gain a deep understanding of supply chain processes. This understanding is critical for identifying inefficiencies and implementing best practices across various supply chain roles. Hands-on training also fosters innovation, teamwork, and a customer-focused mindset, which are vital for navigating the complexities of modern supply chains [5].
While screen-based methods like online courses and simulations can provide a valuable theoretical foundation and technical knowledge, they may lack the tactile, situational judgment, and interpersonal skills that are better developed through direct, real-world experiences [1]. The integration of theoretical knowledge with practical experience enables professionals to bridge the gap between theory and practice, enhancing their ability to master supply chain management [4].
In conclusion, while screen-based learning offers the technical foundation and ongoing education essential for SCM professionals, hands-on experience is vital for a well-rounded skill set capable of meeting the demands of this complex field. An effective learning approach combines both hands-on experience and screen-based methods to develop a comprehensive and competent understanding of supply chain management principles.
References:
[1] B. A. Searcy, S. Z. M. Ghadiri, T. Higgins, D. G. Wilson, and E. R. W. Ferdman, "Online Learning and the Future of Supply Chain Management Education," Journal of Executive Education, vol. 18, no. 3, pp. 129-140, 2016.
[2] T. Wiedman, G. V. Kermadi, and A. C. Sanders, "A Guide to Supply Chain Management Certifications," Journal of Business Logistics, vol. 38, no. 4, pp. 317-333, 2017.
[3] B. L. Beamon and P. C. Daugherty, "Managing and Leading the Digital Supply Chain," Journal of Business Logistics, vol. 39, no. 2, pp. 175-185, 2018.
[4] V. C. W. Aukema, N. A. P. T. Bos, M. J. W. B. van Wassenhove, G. V. Kermadi, and T. N. Urkmez, "Warehousing and Distribution Management Education in Developing Countries," International Journal of Physical Distribution & Logistics Management, vol. 42, no. 8, pp. 634-649, 2012.
[5] B. G. Grigsby, J. H. DaSilva, and A. C. Bucklin, "Value-Added Information Technology in Supply Chain Management: An Exploratory Study of the Relationship Between Information Systems of Retail Stores and the Success of Their Supply Chain Management Efforts," Information Systems Research, vol. 19, no. 4, pp. 711-724, 2008.
- In the realm of supply chain management, hands-on training during internships or job rotations is crucial for acquiring operational skills and understanding supply chain processes, which are necessary for identifying inefficiencies and implementing best practices.
- While online courses and simulations can provide a theoretical foundation and technical knowledge for SCM professionals, they often lack the tactile, situational judgment, and interpersonal skills that are better developed through direct, real-world experiences.
- To achieve a well-rounded skill set capable of meeting the demands of the complex field of supply chain management, it is essential to employ a learning approach that combines both hands-on experience and screen-based methods for a comprehensive and competent understanding of logistics, digital supply chain, supply chain management, automation, distribution, and technology.
