Question

What level of responsiveness would be most appropriate for Amazon’s supply chain? What should the supply chain be able to do particularly well?

Answer 1

The responsiveness to supply chain has different forms such as capability to handle different ranges in different quantities, ensure short lead times, ability to handle a huge range of the products, create innovative products, high service level at all customer contact points and the ability to handle any uncertainties in supply chain. In this aspect, Amazon’s supply chain should have the supply chain responsiveness in the areas of its ability to handle a huge range of products in different quantities, high level of service for customers and the ability to handle uncertainties in the supply chain to ensure on-time delivery for which Amazon is known for. The aspect of supply chain that Amazon needs to do particularly well is the return policy and the quality of the products. I personally had a bad experience by ordering a product that was of very poor quality that did not match with the product description in the company’s website. Also, the return of the product was too complex.