Demand chain
Contents |
[edit] Introduction
A firm wanting to bring its goods or services to market must undertake a series of activities that may include designing, manufacturing, marketing, sales, delivering and supporting the product (after sales). This comprehensive suite of activities is called the value chain and is split into two halves: demand chain and supply chain.
[edit] Demand chain
The demand chain is concerned with all the activities a firm undertakes to generate the demand for its goods and services, so it includes marketing, sales and service. As the demand chain drives demand, and demand comes from customers, it is customers that must be directly and successfully influenced by demand chain activities.
Managing a demand chain involves managing the relationships between customers and suppliers so that maximum value is created for the customer while the demand chain overall incurs minimal costs.
[edit] Supply chain
In contrast, the supply chain – the other half of the value chain – encompasses those activities (purchasing, manufacturing and distribution undertaken by companies and people) that are needed to transfer products from suppliers to customers. So, turning natural resources, raw materials and components into finished products that are eventually delivered to customers is typical of supply chain activities.
Many activities in the supply chain may be performed by individual companies which, while they form part of the chain of supply have no direct link or even interest in other supply chain firms.
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki
Featured articles and news
The UK's Modern Industrial Strategy: A 10 year plan
Previous consultation criticism, current key elements and general support with some persisting reservations.
Building Safety Regulator reforms
New roles, new staff and a new fast track service pave the way for a single construction regulator.
Architectural Technologist CPDs and Communications
CIAT CPD… and how you can do it!
Cooling centres and cool spaces
Managing extreme heat in cities by directing the public to places for heat stress relief and water sources.
Winter gardens: A brief history and warm variations
Extending the season with glass in different forms and terms.
Restoring Great Yarmouth's Winter Gardens
Transforming one of the least sustainable constructions imaginable.
Construction Skills Mission Board launch sector drive
Newly formed government and industry collaboration set strategy for recruiting an additional 100,000 construction workers a year.
New Architects Code comes into effect in September 2025
ARB Architects Code of Conduct and Practice available with ongoing consultation regarding guidance.
Welsh Skills Body (Medr) launches ambitious plan
The new skills body brings together funding and regulation of tertiary education and research for the devolved nation.
Paul Gandy FCIOB announced as next CIOB President
Former Tilbury Douglas CEO takes helm.
UK Infrastructure: A 10 Year Strategy. In brief with reactions
With the National Infrastructure and Service Transformation Authority (NISTA).
Ebenezer Howard: inventor of the garden city. Book review.
The Grenfell Tower fire, eight years on
A time to pause and reflect as Dubai tower block fire reported just before anniversary.
Airtightness Topic Guide BSRIA TG 27/2025
Explaining the basics of airtightness, what it is, why it's important, when it's required and how it's carried out.
Construction contract awards hit lowest point of 2025
Plummeting for second consecutive month, intensifying concerns for housing and infrastructure goals.
Understanding Mental Health in the Built Environment 2025
Examining the state of mental health in construction, shedding light on levels of stress, anxiety and depression.