Final answer:
The push/pull view is useful for supply chain design as it sorts processes by their reaction to customer orders. Technology, transportation, policies, and labor rights protection are key to improving the chain. The specialization and division of the value chain have bolstered international trade and economic gains.
Step-by-step explanation:
The push/pull view of the supply chain is useful when considering strategic decisions relating to supply chain design because it categorizes processes based on whether they are initiated in response to or in anticipation of customer orders. This concept is essential for understanding how different segments of the supply chain operate and how improving technology, transportation methods, and policies can enhance supply chain efficiency, especially during national emergencies. Adopting new technologies and labor policies contributes to a more robust and responsive supply chain. Furthermore, the specialization and division of the value chain benefits international trade by allowing firms and workers to focus on specific parts of production, leading to economic gains through improved innovations and specialized products.
Supply chain issues can be mitigated by sharing technology advancements with developing countries, furthering the sophistication of products in the market. Ensuring that labor rights are protected is also crucial for a sustainable supply chain. In addition, the concept of a split value chain in the global economy has allowed for specialization in different stages of production and is facilitated by advances in communication technology and transportation. This has made it easier to split and offshore parts of the production process, leading to increased intra-industry trade and economic gains from specialization.