Supply chains are now reliant on advanced technology to manage complex processes. Computers automatically order necessary supplies when they are low, issue tracking numbers on products when they are being shipped out, and send customers emails with important information. However, what is the next series of technology that will change SCM and what are the likely effects? Can it be improved anymore? You could investigate what companies are currently developing, and how they feel it will further benefit their business in the future. You could look at how technology has changed SCM over the past 15 or 20 years and make predictions on the impact of further technological advances.
There are different types of SCM. Some companies like to be responsive to the market and produce products when they receive orders (just-in-time production), others that have a longer production process need to build up stocks should there be a sudden increase in demand. Research could focus on how and why companies choose to adopt certain production processes and how this affects the supply chain. Does producing products on a just-in-time basis increase quality, lower costs, or increase company reputation?
Different types of organizations (large or small, private or state-run) use different SCM practices. Research could look at why certain organizations adopt different methods and their reasoning's. A common perception is that advanced SCM is only used by large private businesses keen to make profits, but is this always the case? You could look at how organizations competing in similar markets but in different countries use SCM.
SCM has clearly helped companies grow and provided consumers with greater choice, but has everybody gained? Research could look at organizations that have successfully or unsuccessfully used SCM, and the types of organizations and industries that have suffered. Large food companies are often criticized for giving producers a hard deal by forcing them to sell their products at low prices; is this true? Perhaps they have instead created an easier and more reliable way for them to get their products to market.