Durham University
Programme and Module Handbook

Postgraduate Programme and Module Handbook 2024-2025

Module BUSI4Z115: INFORMATION SYSTEMS IN THE SUPPLY CHAIN

Department: Management and Marketing

BUSI4Z115: INFORMATION SYSTEMS IN THE SUPPLY CHAIN

Type Open Level 4 Credits 15 Availability Not available in 2024/2025 Module Cap
Tied to N1KM07

Prerequisites

  • None.

Corequisites

  • None.

Excluded Combination of Modules

  • None.

Aims

  • To enable students to acquire a specialist knowledge and understanding of the ways in which modern information systems (IS) contribute to a holistic integration of functions along the supply chain to generate savings and allow for competitive advantage.

Content

  • The role and impact of IS in and between businesses
  • Different types of IS for: enterprise core functions (ERP-systems); customer relationship management; supplier relationship management; strategic enterprise management and competitive intelligence; enterprise content management and information lifecycle management; supply chain optimization, e.g. advanced planning systems
  • Architectures and technologies for the integration of multiple IS
  • Methods of introducing, operating, maintaining and optimising IS in supply chains

Learning Outcomes

Subject-specific Knowledge:
  • Upon successful completion of the module, the students will:
  • have an advanced knowledge and understanding of the role of integration of business functions with the help of IS.
  • have developed a holistic understanding of the key applications, communication technologies and information systems along the supply chain.
  • be able to critically assess and evaluate different alternatives of supply chain-oriented information systems and technologies.
  • have an advanced understanding of the critical success factors in the IS-based integration of business functions.
  • have a critical appreciation of the limitations of IS support in supply chains.
Subject-specific Skills:
    Key Skills:
    • Written communication; Interpersonal communication; Oral communication; Teamwork; Planning, organising and time management; Problem solving and analysis; Using initiative; Computer literacy.

    Modes of Teaching, Learning and Assessment and how these contribute to the learning outcomes of the module

    • Learning outcomes will be met through a combination of lectures, group work, case studies, class exercises and discussions, supported by guided reading.
    • The assessment of the module by written assignment is designed to:
    • test the acquisition and articulation of knowledge and critical understanding;
    • test skills of application and interpretation.

    Teaching Methods and Learning Hours

    Activity Number Frequency Duration Total/Hours
    Full-day sessions combining lectures, group work, case studies, class exercises and discussions. 28
    Preparation and Reading 122
    Total 150

    Summative Assessment

    Component: Individual Written Assignment Component Weighting: 50%
    Element Length / duration Element Weighting Resit Opportunity
    Individual Written Assignment 2,000 words (max) 100%
    Component: Group Presentation Component Weighting: 50%
    Element Length / duration Element Weighting Resit Opportunity
    Group Presentation 30 minutes 100%

    Formative Assessment:

    Classroom-based exercises involving individual and group analyses and presentations on specific business situations/problems relevant to the learning outcomes of the module. Oral and written feedback will be given on a group and individual basis as appropriate.


    Attendance at all activities marked with this symbol will be monitored. Students who fail to attend these activities, or to complete the summative or formative assessment specified above, will be subject to the procedures defined in the University's General Regulation V, and may be required to leave the University