Assessing Supply Chain Management Practices on Organizational Performance; a Case Study of the West African Examinations Council (Waec), Ghana National Office, Accra

Author(s)

Alexander Fianko Otchere , Jonathan Annan , Amoako Aggrey Daniel ,

Download Full PDF Pages: 36-48 | Views: 983 | Downloads: 235 | DOI: 10.5281/zenodo.3408188

Volume 2 - June 2013 (06)

Abstract

Improved organizational performance is determined by how an entity strategically trade-off cost (efficiency) and responsiveness at all levels. Incorporating supply chain practices into existing structures has the potential of yielding positive returns for the organisation. The objective of this study was to assess the supply chain management practices (SCMP) and the critical success factors with its associated benefits on organizational performance at WAEC. The study used primary data from field survey using questionnaire instrument. Both descriptive and inferential statistics were used to assess the SCMP of WAEC. The study revealed a number of supply chain practices which include: product quality, joint problem-solving with suppliers, continuous improvement, customer interaction, periodic evaluation of performance, among others, are practiced at WAEC. However, the study identified some challenges such as inadequate information system, difficulty in partnering with key customers and suppliers, and difficulty in managing procurement processes of the council. The challenges has led to increased total supply chain cost, thereby reducing profitability in the long run, making it difficult to reap the benefits of an effective supply chain management practices. In view of the enumerated challenges, the researchers recommend that, an immediate integration of the business processes of the Council as well as embracing other new management philosophies such as Lean management, Total Quality Management (TQM) and Just-in-Time (JIT). 

Keywords

Supply Chain Management, Organizational Performance, West African Examinations Council (WAEC), Ghana, Accra

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