Dark Side of Downloads
This article in Escapist Magazine, entitled the Dark Side of Direct Downloads presents an interesting example of just how much the supply chain for software and related industries has changed due to the internet.
Q&A: Delivery of Information Goods
Here are some youtube clips explaining the concept of software as a service (SaaS).
1. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kGUPSvswmY0
2. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EXS0BFS6QT4
Expalin in your own words the benefits and challenges of SaaS.
Hulu Case Questions
MIS 3537 Internet and Supply Chains
Due Date: March 10, 2014
Refer to the case “Hulu: An Evil Plot to Destroy the World” from the HBSP website.
Answer the following questions briefly (4-5 lines each):
1. Draw the supply chain for Hulu and highlight content acquisition and distribution. How do companies such as Hulu and Netflix use supply chain to compete strategically?
2. Research on the internet and list some examples of how companies such as Netflix and Hulu are controlling the supply chain of digital content acquisition and distribution.
3. How does TV Everywhere pose a threat to Hulu? Describe, in your words, how Hulu should respond?
4. The different broadcasters –CBS, NBC, ABC, Fox – have all chosen a different strategy to the internet. Which strategy is preferred?
5. Comment on how the digital channels put pressure on existing business models for firms in the creative industry (such as TV).
All groups (expect the group making the presentation) are required to submit a printout of their answers to the instructor at the beginning of the class. Also, be prepared to discuss the case in the class.
Extra Credit Assignment
Value: This is an optional, individual extra credit assignment. It can add up to 5 additional points to the case portion of your grade.
Assignment: In reviewing the literature, the web, your classes, etc. there are many uses of Information Technology (I/T), the internet, etc. that can address important supply chain management issues, opportunities for improvement, etc.
Select one (1) opportunity to use I/T that positively impacts supply chain management and operations that we did not discuss in a class case. For that opportunity write a 1-2 page white paper that:
- Outlines what the opportunity is to use I/T in Supply Chain Management
- Describes the Supply Chain Management issue / opportunity / etc.
- Describes how use of I/T addresses that issue / opportunity
- Defines the compelling reason a Supply Chain Manager should take advantage of this opportunity
Note: Assume the White Paper is going to be read by busy Supply Chain Managers. These busy managers (like some professors) are not looking for lots of words and filler – they want to know all the critical facts and ideas presented in a clear, readable and compelling manner.
Due: April 14th (in-class)
100 second reflection for week 7
Think for 100 seconds, and summarize the key things that you learned in the class in week 7 – Information Goods Supply Chain, RFID case, …
Beer Game: Round 2
Although I only received change instructions for 3 of the 7 teams, I have made the changes requested and reset the game.
Per majority request (only way I could configure it) all single players will play with the reduced shipping delay (2 weeks -> 1).
You can now proceed to play Round 2.
Good Luck!
100 second reflection for week 6
Think for 100 seconds, and summarize the key things that you learned in the class in week 6 – RFID, the Exam, …
RFID Videos
Here are a few videos on RFID.
1. Retail Shopper – ‘shoplifter’
2. Retail Shopper – elderly couple
3. IBM Commercial – boxes should drive
Comment on the benefits and pitfalls of RFID.
RFID at Metro Case
Case questions in this document.
The case is due February 25 and will be discussed in class that day.
100 second reflection for week 5
Think for 100 seconds, and summarize the key things that you learned in the class in week 5 – Beer Game, Bullwhip Effect Lecture, …