Hello, I have a question.

[Hayek_Fan]

Greetings,

I am currently a Freshman in college who is interested in SCM. I have read only read a few introductory books on the topic, but everything was very very interesting. However, I was wondering how much math is required to properly understand the field of supply chain management? I don't find math particularly exciting, but I don't dislike it either. I am not sure if simple algebra is all that is needed, or if you all need to know advanced calculus. I was just wondering so I could pick my classes accordingly.

I apologize in advance for asking such a simple question on a forum filled with experts.

Many Thanks

[Starbucks Junkie]

Welcome to the Forum, I hope you find it useful..

You do not need a degree in Maths to be effective in Supply Chain, many data management tools have built in calculations for you to use, Excel being a perfect example.

I knowledge of Maths and of using percentages for example would be good enough..

Now if you want to get into more specifics like demand forecasting, then a good knowledge of maths comes in handy.

[Hayek_Fan]

Thanks a lot for the reply. However, after reading your answer, I have another question. Do you need to be well versed with data management programs such as excel? Would the information that I learn in CIS classes be of any use? Do you get very in depth with the program or do you only use a few features?

I have searched all over the internet, and I still can't find an answer. You are my last hope.

Thanks again, I will repay you someday. Perhaps a free Starbucks coffee.

[Starbucks Junkie]

The free coffee would be most welcome

The majority of roles that you can do within supply chain will require you to have an average to intermediate knowledge of at least MS Excel, just so that you can utilise it's analytical capabilities to review and use data as a strategic advantage.

Most ERP systems are pretty simlilar in their functionality, although they are all almost individual in their front end operations, this would normally be trained to any new employee anyway. Although a company would normally want the new employeee to have an understanding of how to use MS Office packages.

I myself when interviewing, ask the interviewee to sit a test on Excel to ensure that the candidate has the correct level of skill that will be needed to perform in the role.