The Definition Problem

Whatever the forum, the trend is toward a broadened definition of the supply chain. One view holds that the supply chain is all that happens to a product from dirt to dust. In this view, the supply chain begins with mining ores or growing crops, extracting raw material from Mother Earth. The chain continues through conversion and distribution processes that deliver the product to the end-user. It also includes the activities required to maintain the product during use. The supply chain ultimately ends with disposal of the product after it is used up — presumably returning to Mother Earth in some form somewhere. 

Since then, the authors note, the scope of SCM has expanded beyond uniting departments in a single company to multicompany collaboration. However, they note that the underlying principles remain the same  

Set supply chain policies that are consistent with company strategy. 

Analyze trade-offs holistically, not just from a department or company point of view. 

Employ cross-functional support systems to facilitate optimal decisions. 

---

Schmid, A.P. (2004). Terrorism - the Definitional Problem. Case Western Reserve Journal of International Law. 36(2/3), 103-147. 

---