10 Key Reasons Why a Strong Supply Chain is Essential During the Festival Season

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In today’s globalised economy, the role of procurement and supply chain management (PLSCM) has become increasingly critical. Businesses rely on efficient supply chains to maintain competitiveness, reduce costs, and ensure customer satisfaction. As a result, there is a growing demand for professionals who are well-versed in the complexities of supply chain management. Pursuing a master’s degree in PLSCM can provide individuals with the knowledge, skills, and credentials needed to excel in this dynamic field.

Robert Kennedy College (RKC), in exclusive partnership with the University of Salford, UK, offers a globally recognised online MSc programme in Procurement, Logistics and Supply Chain Management. The programme is also accredited by the Chartered Institute of Purchasing and Supply (CIPS) and the Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport (CILT).

As we approach the New Year and the holiday season draws near, it is especially important to maintain sufficient stock levels to ensure that all customers, along with their friends and family, enjoy a joyful and hassle-free season.

The festival season is a time of joy, celebration, and increased consumer activity. For businesses, it represents a critical period where demand surges and the ability to meet this demand can significantly impact their success. A robust supply chain is essential to ensure product availability, customer satisfaction, and smooth operations. This becomes even more critical during the holiday season, as businesses must optimise their strategies to thrive in this busy period.

Here are ten reasons why a strong supply chain is vital during the festive season, along with insights on how businesses can enhance their supply chain strategies for success.

(1) Meeting Increased Demand

One of the most significant challenges during these times is the spike in consumer demand as people tend to shop more, both online and offline. A strong supply chain ensures that businesses can keep up with this increased demand without facing stockouts or delays. This involves accurate demand forecasting, efficient inventory management, and timely stock replenishment

(2) Enhancing Customer Satisfaction

Making sure customers are happy during the holidays is vital because it adds to the joy they are already feeling. With so many options available, customers are likely to switch to competitors if they experience delays or stockouts. A well-managed supply chain ensures that products are available when and where customers want them. This not only enhances customer satisfaction but also builds brand loyalty, which can have long-term benefits for the business.

(3) Reducing Operational Costs

An efficient supply chain minimises operational costs by optimising processes like procurement, production, and distribution. Even minor inefficiencies can cause substantial cost overruns when volumes are high. Streamlining operations and removing bottlenecks enables businesses to cut costs and enhance their bottom line.

(4) Managing Supplier Relationships

Strong supplier relationships are crucial for a smooth supply chain. During peak demand periods, businesses need to ensure that their suppliers can meet the increased demand and deliver products on time. This requires effective communication, collaboration, and sometimes even strategic partnerships. By collaborating closely with suppliers, businesses can ensure a steady flow of goods and avoid disruptions.

(5) Leveraging Technology

Technology plays a vital role in modern supply chain management. Advanced tools and systems such as ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning), WMS (Warehouse Management Systems), and TMS (Transportation Management Systems) can help businesses manage their supply chains more effectively. These technologies can provide real-time visibility into inventory levels, track shipments, and optimise routes, ensuring that products reach customers quickly and efficiently.

(6) Ensuring Flexibility and Agility

The festival season can be unpredictable, with sudden changes in demand and supply chain disruptions. A strong supply chain is flexible and agile, capable of adapting to these changes quickly. This involves having contingency plans in place, such as alternative suppliers, backup transportation options, and flexible inventory policies. By being prepared for the unexpected, businesses can maintain continuity and avoid disruptions.

(7) Enhancing Collaboration Across the Supply Chain

Collaboration across the supply chain is essential for smooth operations during the festival season. This includes collaboration between different departments within the organization, as well as with external partners such as suppliers, logistics providers, and retailers. Effective collaboration ensures that everyone is on the same page and working towards common goals, leading to better coordination and efficiency.

(8) Focusing on Sustainability

Sustainability is becoming increasingly important in supply chain management. Businesses can leverage their supply chains to promote sustainable practices, such as reducing waste, minimising their carbon footprint, and using eco-friendly packaging. A robust supply chain can help businesses achieve their sustainability goals while also meeting customer expectations for environmentally responsible products.

(9) Utilising Data and Analytics

Data and analytics are powerful tools for optimising supply chain performance. During peak demand periods, businesses can use data to gain insights into customer behaviour, demand patterns, and supply chain performance. This information can be used to make informed decisions, such as adjusting inventory levels, optimising transportation routes, and improving supplier performance. By leveraging data and analytics, businesses can enhance their supply chain efficiency and responsiveness.

If Data Analytics is a field you are looking to specialise in then RKC offers an MSc programme in Data Analytics.

(10) Preparing for Post-Festival Demand

The holiday season does not end with the last day of celebrations. Businesses need to be prepared for the post-festival period, which can also see high demand due to returns, exchanges, and continued shopping. A strong supply chain ensures that businesses can manage this extended period of activity without disruptions. This involves planning for reverse logistics, managing returns efficiently, and maintaining adequate inventory levels.

To conclude, a strong supply chain is the backbone of business success. It ensures seamless operations, meets heightened customer expectations, and minimises disruptions during this peak period. By investing in efficient supply chain strategies, businesses can not only thrive but also gain a competitive edge, fostering long-term customer loyalty and sustainable growth.

If you want to do an online degree programme in another specialisation then explore several specialised master’s/bachelor’s/PhD degree programmes that Robert Kennedy College offers through exclusive partnerships with top British universities. You could also chat live with our team of Education Advisers on WhatsApp, who can have a look at your profile and give you some advice.

If you have already made up your mind, click here to apply.

The Significance of Shipping Accidents on the Global Supply Chain

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Due to globalisation, maritime traffic has increased dramatically. This increase also increases the risk of shipping accidents, which can have long-lasting effects on global supply chains. These incidents result in the immediate loss of cargo and lead to disruptions across various economic sectors, causing problems that can take months or even years to sort out.

Photo by Ian Taylor on Unsplash

Immediate Impact on Cargo and Environment

In a shipping mishap, the primary concern is retrieving the cargo. The extent of the accident will determine whether the cargo is lost at sea, damaged, or delayed. Even a brief delay can render the products unsalable for perishable commodities, resulting in significant financial setbacks for exporters. Furthermore, such incidents often result in environmental catastrophes, with hazardous materials being released into the ocean and adversely impacting marine life. The subsequent cleanup and legal proceedings can be financially burdensome and time-consuming, underscoring the urgent need for more stringent safety regulations in the shipping industry.

Supply Chain Disruptions

Photo by Arno Senoner on Unsplash

In the event of a shipping accident, the entire supply chain is disrupted, causing ramifications for retailers, manufacturers, and consumers alike. Inventory loss or delayed shipments create market gaps, leading to stock shortages for retailers and resulting in revenue loss and customer dissatisfaction. Manufacturers reliant on just-in-time delivery face production delays, thereby unsettling interconnected industries. For consumers, the repercussions include product unavailability and potential price escalation.

Rising Expenses and Higher Insurance Premiums

Photo by Vlad Deep on Unsplash

The occurrence of shipping accidents often leads to escalated transportation expenditures. This is coupled with a notable surge in insurance premiums for shipping companies, and these heightened costs are then transferred throughout the supply chain, ultimately impacting the end consumer. Furthermore, companies may invest in more sophisticated and consequently more expensive tracking and safety technologies to mitigate future risks, thereby further amplifying operational costs.

Long-Term Repercussions and Loss of Trust

The long-term consequences of shipping accidents can be quite serious. When accidents occur repeatedly, businesses can lose faith in specific shipping routes or companies, leading them to look for alternative, potentially more costly logistics solutions. This loss of trust can also damage a country’s reputation as a dependable trade partner, which can have a significant impact on its economy.

Case Study

The blockage of the Suez Canal by the Ever Given in 2021, a 400-meter, 200,000-ton container ship operated by Evergreen Marine, is a prime example of how a single shipping accident can disrupt global trade. The incident highlighted the vulnerability of supply chains and emphasised the importance of having contingency plans. It also sparked discussions on diversifying supply routes and investing in infrastructure to prevent similar occurrences.

Photo Credit: Wikipedia (IMO 9811000 EVER GIVEN (09).JPG)

Mitigating the Impact

Companies need to create strong risk management plans to reduce the impact of shipping accidents. This involves diversifying supply chains, keeping sufficient inventory levels, and obtaining insurance. It’s also essential for shipping companies, governments, and international organisations to work together to enhance safety standards and emergency response protocols.

Technology

Photo by Chris Yang on Unsplash

Technological innovations in maritime safety serve as powerful tools for averting shipping accidents. Automated systems, artificial intelligence, and enhanced navigation tools swiftly recognise potential hazards and mitigate human errors. Additionally, real-time tracking and monitoring systems facilitate rapid response times during emergencies, thereby reducing the extent of damage caused.

Shipping accidents are an unfortunate reality of maritime trade. However, their impact on supply chains can be managed with proper planning and investment in technology. As the global economy continues to grow, the resilience of supply chains will be tested. All stakeholders must work together to ensure the smooth flow of goods across the world’s oceans.

If you are ready to learn something new, certify what you know, network with professionals globally, or take on a new challenge, consider getting a globally recognised master’s degree. Take a look at our list of online programmes and see if we have anything that aligns with your new career path.

You can also chat LIVE on WhatsApp with one of our Education Advisors for more information on all the programmes we offer, the application process, and the discounts we might offer.

Navigating Global Supply Chains in a Post-Pandemic World

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The COVID-19 pandemic exposed vulnerabilities in global supply chains that had long been ignored. As the world grappled with disruptions to manufacturing, transportation, and logistics, it became evident that rethinking and adapting supply chain strategies was imperative. In this blog, we’ll explore the evolution of global supply chains in a post-pandemic world and the key trends shaping their future.

Covid-19 exposed vulnerabilities of global supply chain
  1. Resilience Over Efficiency

One of the most significant shifts in post-pandemic supply chains is the emphasis on resilience over efficiency. Traditionally, many supply chains prioritized cost-cutting and just-in-time production. The pandemic demonstrated that a single disruption could cascade through the entire system, leading to severe consequences.

Companies are now reevaluating their sourcing strategies, adopting a more diversified approach. They’re considering dual-sourcing, nearshoring, and onshoring to mitigate risks. While efficiency remains important, it’s no longer the sole focus. Supply chain managers are building in redundancies, maintaining safety stock, and investing in risk management tools to be better prepared for future disruptions.

Companies are re-evaluating their sourcing strategies
  1. Digital Transformation

The pandemic accelerated the adoption of digital technologies across industries, including supply chain management. Digital transformation has become a critical enabler of agility and visibility in global supply chains.

Supply chains are using more tech and AI tools post pandemic
  • IoT and Sensors: The use of sensors and Internet of Things (IoT) devices provides real-time data on inventory, temperature, humidity, and more, ensuring the quality and condition of goods in transit.
  • Blockchain: Blockchain technology is being used to enhance transparency and traceability, reducing the risk of counterfeit goods and improving trust among supply chain partners.
  • Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning: AI and machine learning algorithms are employed for demand forecasting, route optimization, and predictive maintenance, improving operational efficiency.
  • Cloud-Based Platforms: Cloud-based supply chain platforms enable real-time collaboration among partners, providing a shared source of truth and enhancing visibility.
  1. Sustainable Supply Chains

The pandemic brought attention to environmental and social sustainability in supply chain practices. Consumers, stakeholders, and governments are increasingly concerned about the carbon footprint, ethical labor practices, and the social impact of global supply chains.

Companies are making commitments to reduce their carbon emissions, transition to renewable energy sources, and promote sustainable sourcing. Sustainable supply chain practices not only reduce environmental impact but also contribute to building brand reputation and resilience.

  1. Reshoring and Nearshoring

In response to the fragility exposed during the pandemic, companies are reconsidering their outsourcing strategies. Reshoring and nearshoring, the practice of bringing production closer to the end market, are gaining popularity.

These strategies reduce transportation lead times, minimize disruptions, and enhance supply chain control. While it may result in slightly higher production costs, the benefits of reduced risks and enhanced customer service often outweigh the added expenses.

  1. Enhanced Risk Management

The pandemic reminded businesses of the importance of risk management in supply chain operations. Companies are now investing in more robust risk assessment and mitigation strategies. This includes diversifying supplier networks, maintaining adequate safety stock, and developing contingency plans for different types of disruptions.

  1. Collaborative Supply Chains

Collaboration has taken on a new level of importance in supply chain management. As businesses grapple with increased complexity and uncertainty, collaboration with suppliers, customers, and even competitors has become crucial. By sharing information and resources, companies can collectively respond to challenges more effectively.

For instance, companies may collaborate on demand forecasting, sharing data that helps to align supply with actual demand. Partnerships can also be formed to address common challenges like transportation bottlenecks, ensuring that goods continue to flow smoothly. This collaborative approach not only enhances resilience but also helps reduce costs and increase efficiency.

  1. E-commerce and Last-Mile Logistics

The surge in e-commerce during the pandemic is here to stay. Online retail and direct-to-consumer sales have become integral parts of supply chains. This shift has had a significant impact on last-mile logistics—the final leg of a product’s journey to the consumer.

Companies are investing in advanced last-mile delivery solutions such as autonomous vehicles and drones, as well as micro-fulfillment centers strategically located in urban areas. The goal is to speed up deliveries, reduce costs, and meet customer expectations for fast, reliable service. This evolution in last-mile logistics is not only about convenience but also about sustainability, as reducing the environmental impact of deliveries becomes a priority.

  1. Talent and Workforce Adaptation

The supply chain workforce is undergoing a transformation as well. The pandemic highlighted the need for skilled professionals who can navigate the complexities of global supply chain management. There’s a growing demand for supply chain experts who understand digital technologies, sustainability practices, and risk management.

Companies are investing in training and development programs to upskill their existing workforce and attract new talent. Additionally, remote work and digital collaboration tools have made it possible for supply chain professionals to work more flexibly and efficiently, broadening the talent pool and increasing adaptability.

  1. Regulatory and Trade Considerations

Global supply chains are closely tied to international trade, and regulatory changes can have a significant impact. In a post-pandemic world, governments are reevaluating their trade policies, export controls, and safety regulations. This can result in shifts in trade routes, new tariffs, and changes in import/export requirements.

Companies must stay agile and closely monitor these regulatory changes to adjust their supply chain strategies accordingly. For example, the trade tensions between the United States and China have led many companies to diversify their sourcing to reduce dependence on a single market.

  1. Continuous Monitoring and Scenario Planning

Continuous monitoring of supply chain performance and scenario planning have become best practices for post-pandemic supply chain management. Businesses are investing in advanced analytics and monitoring tools to gain real-time visibility into their supply chain operations. This enables them to identify potential disruptions early and respond proactively.

Scenario planning involves considering multiple “what-if” scenarios, such as natural disasters, labor strikes, or geopolitical conflicts, and developing strategies to mitigate their impact. These exercises help companies stay prepared for unforeseen events and ensure business continuity.

The COVID-19 pandemic was a wake-up call for global supply chains. It prompted a fundamental shift in the way businesses approach supply chain management. Resilience, digital transformation, sustainability, reshoring, and enhanced risk management have become the focal points of post-pandemic supply chain strategies. As companies adapt and evolve, they are better positioned to withstand future disruptions while delivering value to their customers. The global supply chain landscape is evolving, and those who adapt will thrive in this new era.

In conclusion, global supply chains are evolving rapidly in response to the lessons learned during the pandemic. Resilience, digitalization, sustainability, collaboration, and adaptability are the key driving forces shaping the future of supply chain management. By embracing these trends and staying attuned to emerging challenges and opportunities, businesses can build more agile, efficient, and sustainable supply chains that are better prepared for whatever the future may hold.

All you need to know about Cryptocurrency and Blockchain Technology

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Time is money, and both time and money are evolving rapidly. The discovery of the internet disrupted the way the world operated, bringing political, business, economic and social changes. It improved business processes and made online transactions, and banking, among other things, quicker and less complicated. And this is just the beginning; we humans are, after all, constant inventors and innovators.

Traditionally, political, economic, and legal systems structures are defined by contracts, transactions, and records. Nations and organisations set boundaries of operation to identify and chronicle managerial and social events.

But now it’s time for economic transformation. However, the slow and administrative regulations are stifling the digital transformation. 

Blockchain technology is here to help!

What is Blockchain?

Blockchain is an open, distributed technology that enables the process of recording unalterable transactions and tracking assets. Blockchain works on five basic principles:

  1. Distributed database
  2. Immutable records
  3. Transparent access
  4. Algorithm-based computational logic
  5. Two-way participant transmission
Photo credit: Pwc.com

Blockchain gets its name because of the way the transactions are grouped together into blocks of data, then chained together by way of a mathematical function that creates a hash code

Blockchain has disrupted the business industry with its application in financial services, healthcare, artificial intelligence (AI) and the internet of things (IoT) for supply chain, retail sector, oil and gas, telecommunications, insurance, smart contracts, voting and crypto of course.

So, how do blockchain technology and cryptocurrency work together?

Since its first implementation in 2009, blockchain has not been well known. Blockchain technology is the foundational technology for cryptocurrency, which was first implemented just a decade ago but was revolutionised with the widespread use of the application by Bitcoin. Bitcoin was the first cryptocurrency and operated through blockchain.

Blockchain is the foundational technology for cryptocurrency

Blockchain made it possible to record bitcoin transactions without a central authority establishing trust in a trustless environment. Being a digitalised, decentralised, public ledger, blockchain allows the formation of digital information into blocks, which are stored across a network of computers, creating a database. When verifiable transactions take place, the data is stored in blocks, which, when complete, are added to the chain.

Cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin, Ethereum, Litecoin and, USD Coin are used to buy goods and services. And cryptocurrency uses blockchain, an enhanced cryptographic security system, as a public ledger with immutable records that cannot be deleted or altered. 

Cryptocurrency is used as a digital form of cash to buy goods and services through various trading platforms or digital wallets. The blockchain technology here records the transaction when ownership is transferred to the new owner. Every transaction, therefore, is a public ledger, unalterable, secure and time-stamped.

The pace of technology will not slow down. Cryptocurrency and blockchain hand in hand continue to disrupt much more than the financial services industry. 

What are your thoughts? Share in the comments below.

Top 5 Master’s programmes trending in 2022 

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The purpose of pursuing a master’s programme could be many, advancement in career, aiming for a higher salary, growth opportunities, thirst for knowledge, switching careers, etc. A Master’s degree can be pursued to add knowledge on the subject already studied in an undergraduate degree or a new subject regardless of what was learned earlier. It could be your second degree, one of the several you pursued through the career or the very first degree you wanted to earn and get that formal qualification.  

There are numerous options and specialities that you can choose as your major for your master’s degree. However, a few majors have become hugely popular amongst students as these are in great demand by employers, offering better career prospects and employment opportunities.  

So, which master’s programme has made it to the top of the list in 2022? Let’s have a look: 

Top 5 Master’s programme in 2022

1. Project Management 

Just as the name suggests, a project manager takes the lead role in planning, organising and completing a project. Since the project manager skills are easily transferable, they can work in any industry such as banking, tech, retail, pharma, or telecom industry, to name a few.   

Photo credit: Unsplash.com

There has been an ever-increasing demand for project managers, and the economic hit suffered due to Covid-19 across the globe has only strengthened the need for project managers. The disruptions caused by the pandemic have resulted in governments earmarking and spending trillions of dollars on recovery projects.  

With millions of new projects across several industries being put into production, project management is here to stay.  

2. Procurement, Logistics and Supply Chain Management  

Another hugely sought-after specialisation in 2022 is supply chain management. The entire world faces supply crunches for several goods and essentials, with most being back ordered for months. The role of a good supply chain manager is to analyse business processes, identify efficient procurement sources, establish a stable, reliable, and cost-efficient logistics network, and always ensure sufficient inventory levels while minimising costs.  

Photo credit: Unsplash.com

A master’s degree in the field will ensure global career opportunities in purchasing, logistics and consulting.  

3. Leading Innovation and change 

In any business or organisation, change is inevitable. If you are a professional leading and supporting innovation and change in the organisation or community, this specialisation is right for you. A good innovation manager must be good at managing projects and managing change. They help shape the organisation’s culture and processes and provide necessary training to ensure innovative success. Modern organisations provide ample opportunity and rewarding careers for innovators in different roles such as Chief innovation officer, Business development lead, Innovation consultant, Change agent, Innovation strategist and Transformation manager.  

4. Healthcare Management 

If you are looking for a rewarding career focused on healthcare, a master’s degree in healthcare management can jumpstart your career in the field. As a healthcare administrator in roles such as healthcare consultant, Clinical Director, Administrator, and Healthcare manager, you can serve people and the community in improving their health while being on the administrative side of healthcare. There is an increasing demand for managers to look after the day-to-day operations and efficient management of resources in healthcare. 

Photo credit: Unsplash.com

5. Data Analytics 

In this changing and dynamic business environment, traditional methods of doing business and catering to consumer needs is a thing of the past. Nowadays, all businesses and services are being provided online. There is a need to understand consumer behaviour and cater to their specific and, where possible customised demand. The Internet has shrunk the world, and there is a sudden influx of information and big data. Big corporations want to defeat the competition and gain valuable insights into consumer behaviour by analysing data.  

Photo credit: Unsplash.com

The good news is that Robert Kennedy College offers all the above top trending specialisations of 2022. Talk to one of our advisors today about enrolling in one of these programmes! 

What is globalisation?

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I don’t know if you have noticed, but many of the online master’s degree programmes we at Robert Kennedy College offer either have the word Global or International in them. Why do you think that is? Is it because of “globalisation”?

Business globalisation. Photo by Jp Valery on Unsplash.

I know the word is self-explanatory, but we have to start somewhere, so let us begin with the meaning of globalisation. According to the BBC, Globalisation is the process by which the world is becoming increasingly interconnected due to massively increased trade and cultural exchange.

How has this come about?

The first thing that happened was transport became cheaper and faster. We invented the wheel, then the steam engine, then the combustion engine, and so on. People and goods were able to be moved around the world almost overnight and in large quantities.

Then the communication boom. From snail mail to the telephone, it took a bit of time. Then came the era of mobile phones and the internet, and everything changed. The changes seen just in the last 25 years have been miraculous. The world has been brought closer together (Only in business. In every other way, the world is still pretty divided). Companies have become truly multinational and cross border trade – a mundane reality. At this rate, Gene Roddenberry’s vision in Star Trek of an Earth utopia could become a reality (fingers crossed here).

Advances in communication technology changed how we do business. Photo by Stellan Johansson on Unsplash.

Now, if you combine the two (travel and communication), what you get is globalisation.

To understand this better, let us take Apple Inc. as an example – Designed in California, Made in China. The iPhone may be designed in California, but everything that goes into the iPhone is global. The phone itself is manufactured in China with semiconductors sourced from Italy and Germany, memory chips and processors from South Korea, wi-fi and Bluetooth from Japan, and minerals from Mongolia and the Democratic Republic of Congo.  

While this looks impressive, what is really impressive is the Supply Chain Management that must go on behind the scenes. Apple sells upwards of about two hundred million iPhones a year globally, and they bring out new models of the phone every year. This means the material has to be sourced, the components manufactured, the phone assembled/manufactured and then shipped to ensure they reach the customers’ hands-on time. All this has to be carried out like clockworks across multiple countries. Let’s face it, none of us has any patients anymore, and if there is a delay, I am going to Samsung (Oops, I already have, but for a different reason).

How does Apple Inc. sell 200 million iPhones a year? Supply Chain Management! Photo by Kyle Ryan on Unsplash.

For all this to happen, the communication behind the scene has to be real-time, continuous and spot-on. The shipment planning has to be on-time and seamless. Because remember, you are operating across countries here.

There are a lot of positives to globalisation, such as creating jobs and new income in poorer communities, thereby giving them food and a roof over their heads, making a cheaper yet high-quality product for the customer, and keeping manufacturing costs low, thereby enabling the company to invest the money into some other aspect of the business (hopefully no into the pockets of the executives), just to name a few.

While it is hoped that working with companies from developed nations, the local business partner will be able to adapt the best business practices from the developed countries and raise the standard of living of its employees, the reality is companies still need to secure future contracts with the “big fish”, and the way to do that is by giving a lowball quote on future services. They get this done by cutting corners, cutting wages, and cutting the workforce by increasing the workload.

While this is more likely with companies operating in blue colure job segments, it comes down to the laws of the nation they are operating within at the end of the day. If the countries have strong labour laws and enforce them, then this is less likely to happen.

Photo by Tingey Injury Law Firm on Unsplash.

Then there is the question of what happens to the people whose jobs just got outsourced? Are they being retrained and upskilled, or are they just let go? Do companies pass on the cost-benefit of outsourcing to the end-user?

So, while outsourcing and globalisation can be great to the bottom-line of any organisation, companies must ensure ethical business practices of their partners because no one else will. Companies must also provide training and upskilling of their employees before outsourcing because a strong and happy workforce is the backbone of any organisation.

If you are ready to be an efficient and knowledgeable global/international business manager, consider joining one of our 100% online master’s degree programmes. Chat LIVE on WhatsApp with one of our Education Advisors today.

#DILO – A Day in the life of an RKC Student – Ms. Hall 

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Through the #DILO series of blog posts, we have been bringing you insights into our master’s students’ lives, sharing their thoughts and opinions, ups and downs, and key learning points during their online studies. The whole idea behind this series is to make you aware of the realities of online studies and help you in decision making.    

Here are a few insights and some words of wisdom that one of our online master’s students had to share from her own experience.  

Who you are, really?  

Nicola Hall, a full-time employed junior manager, with a small family, including a primary school child.  

Which Uni are you studying at?  

University of Salford  

University of Salford

Which programme did you choose and why?  

I chose Procurement, Logistics and Supply Chain Management because of the growth in demand for skills in the field.  

How did you plan to study each module, and what was the reality? How many hours did/do you have to put in each day/or in a week?  

I had planned to devote five to six hours each evening for four days a week to the module, and 8 to 10 hours on the weekends spread conveniently. The reality was that I sometimes barely got 2 hours of work done after getting home from work. I had to get my time covered in patches during the night after resting for 3 or 4 hours. I got no work done most Sundays, so I ended up doing a great deal on Friday and Saturday nights. Coming closer to when my assignment was due, I had to take a few days of study leave away from work and give it 10 to 12 hours a day.  

The best time to study is night time or early mornings before going to work

What part of the day did/do you find most suitable to study? (e.g. early mornings, lunch break, evenings, weekends?)  

My best study time is at nights; the next option is early morning before getting ready for work. Friday nights were very good for me as well, as I didn’t have to get up for work on Saturdays.  

How did travelling impact your ability to study?  

The only travelling I did was my daily commute, which was 2 hours of driving time. After RKC launched their mobile app, I used my travel time to listen to lectures and go over to catch up on anything I may have missed.  

How were you able to interact with peers and/or professors given the time differences?  

Be mindful of the time difference while interacting with colleagues and professors

Being mindful of the time difference, I would send my email/queries in the evening and check my email early the next morning for a response. I had a few colleagues with whom I worked closely given our cultural background, and I kept a mental note of the time in their region if I needed to call or instant message. It worked out pretty well once the time difference got stuck in my mind.  

How much time did you devote for each assignment?  

I tried to start working on my assignment from the second week. And throughout each day, I may get ideas that contribute to the assignment, and I’ll make a note on my phone.  

What does a typical day as an Online Masters’ student look like for you?  

I get up at about 3 am and get some theory covered by 5:30 am. Then I will get an hour’s rest and begin getting ready for work. While I’m making breakfast, I may have Microsoft Edge read an article in PDF to me. Once at work, I don’t usually have any downtime; I’ll use my lunch break to really have a break and not rush my meal. But when work ends, I’ll spend the rush hour at my desk doing some schoolwork instead of sitting in traffic. After getting home and attending to any home affairs and kids homework, I would settle into my own studies at about 10 pm. I will go online, read through the forums, research for any weekly assignments given, then make my own contribution. I go to bed at about 1 am and go at it again the next day. On the weekend I’ll make sure to get time with the family and go to my schoolwork when they are asleep.  

Any advice you have for students to better plan their studies.  

It would be ideal to go on study leave to pursue your masters, but if that isn’t possible, the Robert Kennedy College online master’s degree program is such a flexible program. There is usually a break in-between modules, and this time should be utilized to get up to speed on theory ahead of classes beginning and assignments being posted. Always seek to defer a module if you feel pressured but do use the free weeks in between to focus on covering as much theory as possible.  

If you have been dreaming of joining a master’s programme or have had this personal goal to gain a higher degree, now is the time! Take the valuable advice from our current students, gain from their experience, add your own unique study strategies, and make your own success stories! I would love to feature you one day on our college blog.  

Chat LIVE on WhatsApp with one of our Education Advisors for more information on all the programmes we offer, application process, and for information on discounts we might be offering at this time. 

Challenges facing Procurement, Logistics and Supply Chain Management professionals in Africa

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Once I started writing this blog, I realised my folly. The topic of my blog might sound simple, it was anything but, especially for me – (1) my knowledge of Procurement, Logistics and Supply Chain Management (PLSCM) is entirely academic, and (2) I am not African, nor have I ever worked or even visited Africa.

But I do know that Africa is the future and has the potential for dramatic growth (if she is able to tap into that potential), and effective management of PLSCM will play a pivotal part in this future, given the resources in raw materials that Africa has.

And hence my topic, and my folly, and something I felt needed to be done.

What I didn’t realise when I picked this topic was the resources I had on hand. As of today, Robert Kennedy College (RKC) has a very large number of students from Africa who are doing or have successfully completed our 100% Online MSc programme in Procurement, Logistics and Supply Chain Management, and this is the resource I tapped into when writing this blog. 

I conducted an online survey of these students (of which about a hundred participated) and asked them about the challenges they face as PLSCM professionals in Africa, the image below indicates a country wise breakup of the response we received from our students to the survey.

Country wise breakup of the survey response received

The following are the top five responses I got back from the survey. Now, while this blog is Africa-centric, I find that these challenges are universal, and effect Africa as a whole, other developing nations, and even the developed or “first world” nations to some degree.

Top 5 challenges facing PLSCM professionals in Africa

Infrastructure – is the foundation on which a strong PLSCM function is built. The whole point of having a streamlined and efficient PLSCM department is to effectively purchase (at best costs) and move raw materials and finished products from point to point in a timely and less resource intensive manner. Efficiency also means having the products readily available, while at the same time not leaving them idling in a storehouse somewhere. To enable this, state of the art, physical infrastructure is needed – from roads and railways to airports, seaports, and safe and secure areas (such as industrial zones, etc.) for manufacturing and storage.

“A change in policy is required as there is a lack of willingness by African governments to invest in infrastructure development.”

Current student of our MSc programme in PLSCM

Corruption – the universal bane to businesses, and something that is global, encouraged and fostered by everyone involved, willingly or unwillingly. It is easy to blame a corrupt official for delays and holdups, until palms are greased to get thing moving without looking at the reasons why. Are you encouraging the behaviour by paying the bribe? Is your competitor paying bribes to hold you up? Why does the official need the money, is he paid enough? Are the laws strict enough to prevent corruption?

“Effective specially designed civic education programs at the grassroots level, to empower the people to make the right choice of leadership to drive the change that is needed.”

Graduate of our online MSc in PLCSM

Policy Change – As one of my former managers once told me “If you are comfortable then you are not growing”. And while this is true, who doesn’t like being comfortable? From our survey, this seems to hold especially true in Africa. For policy changes to take place, something big should have happened for the powers that be to even consider a change, and even then, comities have to be put in place to suggest the changes and then review the suggested changes, all this taking forever. By the time the policy change comes about, it will usually be outdated.

“A paradigm shift from traditional procurement method to e-procurement method. Also, government policies need to be critically reviewed across the board in order to encourage small and medium scale enterprises in Africa. Manufacturing sectors should not be left out as well as they are the process owners.”

A suggestion from one of our online MSc in PLSCM student

Stuck in time (Slow to incorporate modern methods) – A follow on to the previous point, it is not just the people in power who are slow to incorporate change, but also the people who do the work who are slow to embrace change as well. As the saying goes, “if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it”. But what people don’t realise is, it is not about fixing it, it is about bettering it. People get comfortable and don’t want to change or learn new ways of doing things, and then complain about the people above them making life difficult by not embracing change and current best practices.

“Changes in technology are associated with high set-up costs. Financial constraints are a major drawback, especially in some developing economies, when it comes to capital projects. Modern procurement is now taking place online, but many companies still haven’t adopted to these technological changes. Most functions now and procurement is done online while in Africa most countries still do their procurement manually. This is basically because of poor infrastructure, weak strategic alliances and reluctance to change that makes people not adopt these changes.”

A thought from one of our MSc PLSCM students

Cutting corners to save time – another universal truth. After doing a job for a period of time, we begin to believe that we know best, and can make a process better by cutting corners. But what we fail to understand is that we are but a single, small cog in the machine, and a process is in place to help the whole machine run smoother. By cutting corners and not following the process, all that might be achieved is to throw a spanner in the works. If you believe there is a better way to do something, take it to the management and make you case, it might just increase the efficiency of the whole machine.  

“Build Collaborative supportive systems and structures that work for both governments and stakeholders.”

Suggestion from a graduate of our online MSc in PLCSM

These are just some of the most basis challenges that a PLSCM professional faces in Africa. I am sure there are a lot more complicated and technical challenges out there that will confound even the most seasoned PLSCM professional. Constantly learning and getting your knowledge up-to-date is required to stay ahead of the curve. Robert Kennedy College, through our exclusive partnership with the University of Salford, UK, offers a 100% Online MSc in Procurement, Logistics and Supply Chain Management to better prepare you for the challenges to come. Here’s what our students said about this in our survey:

This is what our students had to say when asked during our survey

You can also chat LIVE on WhatsApp with one of our Education Advisors for more information on the programmes offered, application process, and for more information on any discounts we might be running in this rather strange period of our lives.