March 16, 2011

Problem solving and real-world experience are important business skills.

Dr. Oya Tukel attended an SCM Directors' Conference at the University of Texas at Dallas in February where a variety of curriculum issues were discussed by a series of guest speakers. In addition, an interesting study titled, "University and Industry Ranking," was presented by Dana Stiffler of Gartner Supply Chain. Based on survey results from businesses, the study highlighted two important points, including:

• The most important business skills for SCM students; and
• A look at which skills SCM students lack in compared to expectations.

The following skills were ranked as the most important ones that businesses expect:

• Problem Solving
• Ability to Work in Teams
• Broad Understanding of Supply Chain Concepts
• Analytics
• Real World Experience
• Ability to Integrate Information
• Balancing IT and Business Skills
• Global Business Leadership Skills
• Supply Chain Technology
• Risk Management
• Virtual or Matrixed Team Management

There were three skills that had significant percentage gaps when it came to the level of skill that recruits should have versus what they actually have. These skills include Problem Solving, Real World Experience, and Global Business Leadership Skills. Industry expectations for problem solving capabilities increased in 2010 and having real-world experience remains an important component of your resume as companies expect their recruits to have a high level of competence.

If you have any questions as to which OSM classes can help strengthen specific skills or if you are interested in knowing if there are any internships available to build upon your real world experience, please contact Dr. Tukel at o.icmeli@csuohio.edu.