CTSC practice question 10 of 25

After setting improvement priorities on the basis of strategic objectives, what is the next step when approaching supply chain transformation challenges?

Full set: 151 questions

Answer options

A: Develop the project portfolio.

B: Select relevant key performance indicators (KPIs) to track ongoing performance.

C: Design the transformation road map. Correct answer

D: Implement the solutions and manage the changes.

Correct Answer:

C. Design the transformation road map.

Explanation

The CTSC transformation sequence is: establish strategic objectives → identify and prioritize improvements → design the transformation road map (phased timeline and dependencies) → build the detailed project portfolio → implement and measure. Therefore, once priorities are set, the next prescribed step is to create the transformation road map.

Why Incorrect

A. The portfolio is assembled after the high-level road map sets timing and dependencies.
B. KPIs are selected once projects and sequencing are defined, ensuring alignment.
D. Implementation follows planning and measurement preparation, not immediately after prioritization.

References

1. APICS/ASCM CTSC Learning System, Module 4 “Transformation Planning”, p. 4-12: Exhibit “Transformation workflow”.

2. Stanford Univ. MS&E 266 “Supply Chain Strategy” handout 5, p. 3: road-mapping precedes project chartering.

Question breakdown

Tests: Sequencing the transformation approach
Difficulty: Medium

Key idea: Once priorities are set from strategic objectives, the transformation road map turns them into a sequenced, time-phased plan.

How to reach the answer

The clue is 'after setting improvement priorities', so find the step that comes immediately next.
Priorities have to be arranged into a phased plan before individual projects or execution begin.
The road map defines the sequence, milestones and dependencies.
The project portfolio, KPI tracking and implementation all follow from the road map, so C is the answer.

Each option

AIncorrect. The project portfolio is built to deliver the road map, so it comes after the road map is designed.
BIncorrect. Ongoing KPI tracking supports execution and sustainment later in the sequence.
CCorrect. Designing the road map is the next step, converting the prioritized improvements into a phased plan.
DIncorrect. Implementation and change management are the final stages, after planning is complete.

Common trap: Developing the project portfolio feels like a natural next step after prioritizing, but projects are defined within the road map, not ahead of it.

In practice: Teams turn a ranked list of improvement themes into a multi-year road map with waves and dependencies before they charter individual projects.

Remember: Priorities lead to the road map, the road map leads to projects, and projects lead to execution and measurement.

Drafted with AI assistance and checked against the answer key.

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