The Role of Target Customers in the Supply Chain

One of the products that the target customer within the supply chain is jet engines. In most instances, aircraft manufacturers purchase the engines from other manufacturers such as General Electric and Rolls-Royse. They are then able to manufacture aircrafts that are delivered to the airlines, who are the end users across the globe.

Question 2

The involvement of the target customers, who are part of a supply chain, is instrumental in the quality improvement of the manufactured products. In the manufacture of engines, the continued engagement of the aircraft manufacturers have led to significant improvements in the quality of the engines. One aspect of the engine is the reduction in noise levels. Many airlines are becoming concerned about the noise levels, especially in airports. This has compelled them to prefer engines that produce less noise. The manufacturers of the engines have resorted to applying technologies such as turbofan to ensure the final aircrafts produce reduced noise.[1]

Airlines across the globe are also increasingly becoming more inclined to fuel-efficient regarding carbon emission and fuel saving as well. Considering the adverse implication on the environment, and considering the tighter regulations that are being implemented by different countries. Also, airlines prefer the use of less fuel where possible. With the various jet engine manufacturers being in direct contact with the aircraft producing companies has led to notable improvement in the engines using the advanced technologies. Therefore, the involvement of target customers in the supply chain is instrumental in the delivery of quality products that meet the expectation of the customers.[2]

Besides the quality aspect of the products, a close association between an organization and the target customer assists in keeping up with the trends, which help in creating a competitive advantage. In most cases, in the aviation industry, airlines tend to go for the latest sophisticated technology that confers safety of the passengers. In this sense, a close interaction between engine producers and aircraft manufacturers ensures the inclusion of safety measures that guarantee navigation during turbulent weather and another phenomenon that may compromise the safety of the aircrafts. Such rationalizes the importance of a relationship with customers, especially their involvement in making vital quality improvements through the incorporation of robust technologies.

Question 3

In a bid to engage their customers along the supply chain, companies are increasingly shifting from the traditional paper communication to the utilization of modern technology. Notably, social media and personal emailing have been profoundly applied by organizations to keep in touch with the customers.[3] The use of personal emails is particularly essential in the delivery of specific information that may be helpful to a particular client. It instils a sense of being valued on the customers, which works to the advantage of the company through enhanced loyalty. The use of social media is critical in reaching a large number of customers a given time. Social media allows for demos of new products through the use if YouTube and Facebook. This may help in attracting more customers. Videoconferencing and use of customized applications are also gaining momentum in the communication with the customers. Many organizations develop mobile applications that through which the customers can send and receive communications. They can keep themselves updated with the latest products to be launched by a company through the use of the apps. Through the utilization of the identified technologies, organizations are certain of maintaining robust relationships with the customers.

References

Kleinman, Zoe. "How Are Aeroplanes Getting Quieter?". BBC News. Last modified 2013. Accessed January 18, 2018. http://www.bbc.com/news/technology-23260462.

Priddy, Brenda. “4 Ways to Use New Technology for Better Customer Service.” Salesforce. Last modified 2018 Accessed January 18, 2018. https://www.salesforce.com/blog/2013/10/customer-service-technology.html

Reidenbach, R. Eric, and Reginald W. Goeke. Competing for customers and winning with value: breakthrough strategies for market dominance. ASQ Quality Press, 2006.

[1] Kleinman, Zoe. "How Are Aeroplanes Getting Quieter?". BBC News. Last modified 2013. Accessed January 18, 2018. http://www.bbc.com/news/technology-23260462.

[2] Reidenbach, R. Eric, and Reginald W. Goeke. Competing for customers and winning with value: breakthrough strategies for market dominance. ASQ Quality Press, 2006.

[3] Priddy, Brenda. “4 Ways to Use New Technology for Better Customer Service.” Salesforce. Last modified 2018 Accessd January 18 2018. https://www.salesforce.com/blog/2013/10/customer-service-technology.html