Reference no: EM133357508

Assignment:

In March 2020 the world was turned 'upside down' with the spread of Covid 19 into every country and impacting every part of society. In particular, hospitals were overwhelmed with patients urgently requiring treatment but, there was no specific cure for this malady readily available. Globally, research laboratories furiously began working to develop a vaccine to help all of those in need. There was a need to source raw materials, medicinal packaging, inclusion of all research scientists, SC partners, government approval agencies, hospitals, the medical community as a whole, and specialty logistic suppliers especially where the vaccines required refrigeration during transit.

Due to the high contagion rate, factories, and most commerce was dramatically affected and had to close down completely or were severely limited as to their amount of output. Industrial production was basically reduced to extremely low output and retail sales almost exclusively shifted to the e retailers of the world. This created shortages in both commercial and retail sectors. However, there was a concentrated effort to produce medical supplies including ventilators, masks and hand sanitizers as well as other medical related goods. In fact, some manufacturers switched their entire production from industrial or consumer goods to products/components required to combat Covid19

The logistics industry was overwhelmed with demand and had difficulty fulfilling needs due to low supply availability. However, emergency and health related shipments were always given priority.

Please answer the following questions and remit your answers via BB on the date indicated on your Syllabus.

Question. In Chapter, "AGILITY" was described as an enduring trend in operations and supply chain management. In your opinion, did the pharmaceutical companies demonstrate 'agility' in responding to the new market demands? Explain.