Supply Chain Management Midterm Exam Questions Free

This report is structured to simulate a study guide or an instructor’s exam blueprint. It categorizes questions by topic, provides specific examples (Multiple Choice, Short Answer, and Quantitative/Problem Solving), and offers insights into what instructors are looking for in answers.

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A. Strategic Fit & Competitive Strategy

• Concept: The alignment between supply chain strategy and business strategy.
• Sample Questions:
  • Explain the concept of "Strategic Fit" in the context of supply chain management. How does a company like Apple achieve strategic fit differently than a company like Walmart?
  • Compare and contrast Efficient Supply Chains versus Responsive Supply Chains. Provide examples of products suitable for each.
  • What are the three main drivers of supply chain performance? (Facilities, Inventory, Transportation). Explain how a manager can use these drivers to improve responsiveness.

Part 2: Common Question Formats & Archetypes

Most professors use a mix of multiple-choice, short answer, and quantitative problems. Here is what you will likely see. supply chain management midterm exam questions

Write-Up: Supply Chain Management Midterm Exam

Scenario-Based Problem (Example)

A retailer sells 500 units/week of a product at $10 each. Holding cost is 20% of unit cost, and ordering cost is $50 per order. Lead time is 2 weeks. Calculate: This report is structured to simulate a study

1. Economic Order Quantity (EOQ)
2. Reorder point (assuming constant demand and no safety stock)

Archetype 3: The "Outsourcing vs. Make" Decision

Sample Question: "You are the supply chain director for a laptop manufacturer. Your in-house production cost is $450 per unit, with a fixed cost of $1M. A contract manufacturer in Vietnam offers $480 per unit with zero fixed cost. At what volume are you indifferent between the two options?" Concept: The alignment between supply chain strategy and

The Math:

• Indifference Point: ( 1,000,000 + 450x = 0 + 480x )
• ( 1,000,000 = 30x )
• ( x = 33,333 ) units.
• Answer: Below 33,333 units, outsource. Above 33,333 units, make in-house.

Short Answer Follow-up: "Name one hidden cost of outsourcing that is not reflected in the unit price."

• Answer: Intellectual property risk, logistics costs, quality control expenses, or increased lead time.