Discuss the integrating role of standard information technology platforms, such as SAP, in global business management.
Analyze current developments in economic integration.
Present models for doing business in foreign markets. (importing and exporting, partnerships, joint ventures, direct investment, outsourcing and reshoring, etc.).
Requirements
The project consists of a written analysis prepared for an executive. The report should include a comprehensive analysis of the domestic and foreign manufacturing options for the product. The analysis should be supported by tables, charts, or graphs generated based on the appropriate data sources.
Steps to Complete This Project
For the selected re-shoring candidate product that is currently manufactured outside the United States, describe how an enterprise resource planning platform, such as SAP, can help coordinate the flows of information, materials, and money in global operations. Include information about:
Customer orders
Raw materials and components
Production scheduling
Shipping, warehousing, and logistics data
Receivables and payables
Order status
Discuss recent developments in economic integration using the current country of product manufacture. For example, if the selected product is currently manufactured in China, discuss the latest development in countries belonging to BRICS. Feel free to use some data you can find among the learning resources. Include the following factors:
Overall assessment of alliance strengths and weaknesses
Current and future business climate assessment (i.e., how difficult is it to do business)
Current and future macroeconomic factors (e.g., cost of labor, energy, and materials)
Alliance trends (e.g., increasing collaboration between member countries vs. domination of interests of individual member countries)
Discuss the current business model applicable to the selected product. Is the model a case of offshoring? A joint venture? A direct investment? Present the strengths and weaknesses of the current model and the re-shoring alternative.
Conclude the analysis with a section providing the executive with a succinct summary of trends within the alliance using the re-shoring framework. This analysis will provide support for the recommendation of whether the product is a good candidate for re-shoring.
