Which of the following is NOT a goal of supply chain management?

• A. Increasing barriers to market entry for competitors
• B. Improving coordination among supply chain partners
• C. Minimizing total costs while meeting customer service requirements
• D. Maximizing the efficiency of product flow from suppliers to customers

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the primary goals of supply chain management (SCM). SCM aims to optimize the flow of goods, information, and finances from suppliers to customers efficiently and cost-effectively.
2. Step 2: Identify common objectives of SCM, which typically include improving coordination among supply chain partners, minimizing total costs while meeting customer service requirements, and maximizing the efficiency of product flow from suppliers to customers.
3. Step 3: Analyze the option 'Increasing barriers to market entry for competitors' and consider whether this aligns with SCM goals. This option relates more to competitive strategy and market control rather than the operational focus of SCM.
4. Step 4: Compare all options and recognize that SCM focuses on internal efficiency and collaboration rather than creating obstacles for competitors.
5. Step 5: Conclude that 'Increasing barriers to market entry for competitors' is NOT a goal of supply chain management, as it does not pertain to improving supply chain operations or efficiency.