| This is conceptual study in the area of supply chain management. It is well known that the top performers might be engaging a strategic option from a list of activities which support the firm's overall objectives. The academics believe firms should adopt the strategic approach but the senior practitioner sees less change from senior management in attitudes and beliefs. The firms are very aware of the need to be successful in the acquisition of goods and services and the control of costs in the supply chain. What it does not show is that firms actually believe they can use the supply chain as a tool to gain competitive advantage. Big firms enjoy significant economies of scale and as a result operate with lower costs. The hard technical skills of the supply chain professional need to be developed so the supply chain professional will work together with the accountant and engineer for having technical skill in those areas. |