Supply chain management (SCM) is the oversight of materials, information, and finances as they move in a process from supplier to manufacturer to wholesaler to retailer to consumer. Supply chain management involves coordinating and integrating these flows both within and among companies. It includes the following processes:

• Planning: Balancing supply and demand.
• Sourcing: Obtaining goods and services.
• Manufacturing: Production of goods.
• Delivery and Logistics: Getting products to customers.
• Returning: Handling product returns and customer support.

The goal of SCM is to improve efficiency, reduce costs, and enhance customer satisfaction by optimizing every step of the supply chain. It encompasses a wide range of activities, from product development to distribution, and relies on collaboration and communication among all partners in the chain.

Additional information can be found at:

• Oracle - What is Supply Chain Management?
• IBM - Supply Chain Management