Which practice was mentioned as being adopted alongside SCM in response to intense global competition?

• A. Six Sigma
• B. Just-in-Time (JIT)
• C. Lean
• D. ISO certification

Answer: (B)

Coordinating production and procurement tightly with customer demand to shorten lead times and lower inventory. Just-in-Time is adopted alongside SCM because it targets delivering materials and products exactly when they are needed, not earlier or later. This synchronization reduces carrying costs, minimizes waste, and speeds throughput, which are critical advantages when competition is intense on a global scale. It also pushes for reliable suppliers, quick setup times, and accurate information flow across the chain, so the whole system can respond quickly to changes in demand. While other practices like reducing defects, streamlining processes, or pursuing certifications are valuable, Just-in-Time directly complements supply chain management by aligning timing and flow with demand, making it the best fit in this context.