Supply chain uncertainty : a literature review : an insight for Australian CEO's and managers

Supply chain excellence has become a key driver of value and competitiveness across most industries. Achieving this excellence can be a challenge for Australian businesses, particularly with its geographical position, significant dependency of its manufacturing operations at overseas locations, and the recent man made and natural disasters that have had significant impacts on businesses overseas, all of which can raise uncertainties and hence justifying the need for higher visibility in its supply chains. Literature review indicates that little research work has been carried out in Australia that highlights the need for strategies to enable organisations to minimise supply chain uncertainties since the recent world events such as the September 11 attacks and SARS (Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome). Whilst these events had minimal impact on Australian businesses or supply chains, there is no guarantee that it will be immune from such risks external to the supply chain. This paper presents the current supply chain environment in the Asia Pacific region, supply chain risks, supply chain visibility, the role of the CIO (Chief Information Officer) in supply chain visibility and the factors that impact on the supply chain of Australian businesses. Finally the paper proposes contingencies for Australian supply chains to minimize its uncertainties.