What is the primary function of supply chain management?

The primary function of supply chain management is to oversee and optimize the flow of goods, information, and finances. This encompasses the entire process of planning, executing, and monitoring the movement of products from suppliers to consumers, ensuring that all elements of the supply chain work harmoniously together to meet customer demands efficiently.

Supply chain management involves coordinating various activities, such as procurement, production, logistics, and distribution, while also managing relationships with suppliers, manufacturers, and retailers. This holistic approach is crucial for minimizing delays, reducing waste, and enhancing customer satisfaction. By effectively managing both the physical movement of products and the information related to these movements, supply chain management can significantly improve overall operational efficiency and contribute to a company's competitiveness in the market.

The other options touch on important aspects of business operations but do not encapsulate the core purpose of supply chain management. While reducing production costs can be a benefit of effective supply chain management, it is not the primary function. Similarly, managing human resources and establishing marketing strategies are critical to a business but fall outside the direct realm of supply chain activities.