Assignment workshop: research, planning and referencing

This week’s topics

Assignment workshop: research, planning and referencing

1. Unpacking the assignment brief and criteria
2. Finding and evaluating sources
3. Planning and referencing
4. Citing and referencing using the Harvard Style
5. The project brief

What you will be able to do

• 1.1 Explain how core business functions interrelate in supporting supply chain objectives.
• 1.2 Describe how poor coordination can affect cost, customer service and operational performance.
• 1.3 Explain the importance of integrated planning across functions.
• 2.1 Describe different types of inventory and their purpose.
• 2.2 Explain how stock control and replenishment decisions are made.
• 2.3 Explain the importance of accurate data and documentation in supply chain operations.
• 2.4 Describe how information flows between internal functions and external partners.
• 3.1 Explain how collaboration with suppliers, carriers and customers improves performance.
• 3.2 Assess the role of digital systems and automation in improving visibility and coordination.
• 3.3 Explain how organisations build resilience and continuity into supply chains.
• 4.1 Analyse how a selected organisation coordinates activities across functions.
• 4.2 Identify barriers to effective interconnectivity.
• 4.3 Recommend improvements to communication, data sharing or process integration.

Activity

Start with this week’s 2 videos, then: Plan the unit assignment against every criterion; source and reference the evidence.

Study materials

Videos

• Citing and referencing using the Harvard Style · YouTube · UCDLibrary · 7 min · for registered students
• The project brief · Oak National Academy, Key Stage 4 (GCSE level) · for registered students

Further resources

• Writing for Success, ch. 8.1–8.3: Prewriting, outlining and drafting · PDF · Saylor Academy, textbook chapter; pp. 281–318 · for registered students
• Evaluating Information: Applying the CRAAP Test · PDF · Other, report · for registered students
• Harvard Referencing quick guide 2025 (York St John University) · PDF · Other, report · for registered students