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SOUTH AFRICAN QUALIFICATIONS AUTHORITY 
REGISTERED QUALIFICATION THAT HAS PASSED THE END DATE: 

Diploma in Supply Chain Technologies 
SAQA QUAL ID QUALIFICATION TITLE
91876  Diploma in Supply Chain Technologies 
ORIGINATOR
Optimum Learning Technologies (Pty) Ltd 
PRIMARY OR DELEGATED QUALITY ASSURANCE FUNCTIONARY NQF SUB-FRAMEWORK
CHE - Council on Higher Education  HEQSF - Higher Education Qualifications Sub-framework 
QUALIFICATION TYPE FIELD SUBFIELD
Diploma (Min 360)  Field 03 - Business, Commerce and Management Studies  Procurement 
ABET BAND MINIMUM CREDITS PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL NQF LEVEL QUAL CLASS
Undefined  360  Not Applicable  NQF Level 06  Regular-Provider-ELOAC 
REGISTRATION STATUS SAQA DECISION NUMBER REGISTRATION START DATE REGISTRATION END DATE
Passed the End Date -
Status was "Reregistered" 		 SAQA 06120/18  2018-07-01  2018-09-13 
LAST DATE FOR ENROLMENT LAST DATE FOR ACHIEVEMENT
2018-09-13   2023-09-13  

In all of the tables in this document, both the pre-2009 NQF Level and the NQF Level is shown. In the text (purpose statements, qualification rules, etc), any references to NQF Levels are to the pre-2009 levels unless specifically stated otherwise.  

This qualification does not replace any other qualification and is not replaced by any other qualification. 

PURPOSE AND RATIONALE OF THE QUALIFICATION 
Purpose:
To provide learners with the competencies required to manage the processes and interrelationships across the supply chain so as to optimise efficiencies and create sustainable value for organisations. This qualification is aimed at overcoming the traditional functional approach to management and fostering supply chain integration to the advantage of all stakeholders.

Learners will have the opportunity to undertake investigations in the supply chain field, including evaluating different sources of information, gathering and interpreting appropriate information and communicating complex information reliably and coherently, using supply chain conventions, formats and technologies.

The qualification is designed to provide individuals with the competencies required to successfully manage the supply chain and to facilitate internal co-operation and external collaboration amongst partners in the supply chain.

It is expected of each learner to work with various role players, including technical, professional and administrative staff, within the logistics and supply chain environment. A learner should also demonstrate sensitivity to different communities and sensitivity for the social and cultural differences and needs of customers and colleagues, particularly with respect to the distribution of goods within different communities.

Rationale:
To provide the learner with an opportunity to access a qualification via a vocational and professional route that will develop fundamental knowledge and competencies in fields such as business management and financial management, as well as knowledge of general management principles and specific supply chain management principles.

The target groups for this qualification are people working within mid level management positions within the various processes of the supply chain or those who realistically aspire to such positions in the medium term.

The qualification is designed to support the South African economy by promoting best practices in supply chain management and to enhance the global competitiveness and sustainability of organisations and industries in both South and Southern Africa.

Learners will gain substantial work related experience and will be afforded the opportunity to apply knowledge and skills in the workplace context by means of work integrated learning. 

LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING 
It is assumed that learners are already competent in:
  • Communication Literacy at NQF Level 4, and have the ability to interpret and critically reflect on study material.
  • Mathematic Literacy at NQF Level 4.
  • The use data bases and spreadsheets.

    Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL):
    This qualification may be achieved in part or completely through the Recognition of Prior Learning, which includes formal, informal and non-formal learning and work experience.

    RPL is applied for learners who do not have formal academic achievement to gain access to the qualification. Candidates may apply for exemption from certain modules on grounds of prior qualification study achieved. Recognition of Prior Learning learners must comply with all the requirements stated in the learning modules and qualification as well as the institution's RPL policy.

    Access to the Qualification:
    The qualification is open to any learner in possession of a:
  • National Senior Certificate (NSC) allowing access to Diploma studies.
    Or
  • Relevant Further Education and Training Certificate.
    Or
  • National Certificate (Vocational) at NQF Level 4 allowing access to Diploma studies.
    Or
  • Equivalent NQF Level 4 qualification, having competence in Communication and Mathematical Literacy. 
    		•

    RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING? 
    Y 

    QUALIFICATION RULES 
    The 360 Credit qualification consists of 10 Compulsory modules, totalling 240 Credits and a choice from three elective specialisation areas each containing 2 modules totalling an additional 120 Credits.

    Compulsory Modules at NQF Level 5 - 60 Credits:
  • Supply Chain Technologies I, 30 Credits.
  • Transformational Leadership I, 30 Credits.

    Compulsory Modules at NQF Level 6 - 160 Credits:
  • Analytical Techniques, 20 Credits.
  • Business Management, 20 Credits.
  • Business Economics, 20 Credits.
  • Supply Chain Technologies II, 30 Credits.
  • Transformational Leadership II, 30 Credits.
  • Risk Management, 20 Credits.
  • Cost and Management Accounting, 20 Credits.

    Compulsory Module at NQF Level 7 - 20 Credits:
  • Demand Creation, 20 Credits.

    Elective Modules at NQF Level 6 - 120 Credits:
    The Elective Component consists of a number of specialisations areas each with its own Exit Level Outcomes.

    Learners have the option to:
  • Select all the elective components totalling 120 Credits to achieve the qualification.
    Or
  • Select two elective specialisation areas totalling 80 Credits and Complete Work Integrated Learning of 4 months totalling 40 Credits.
    Or
  • Select one elective specialisation area totalling 40 Credits and complete Work Integrated Learning of 8 months totalling 80 Credits to achieve the qualification.

    Modules:
  • Purchasing Management, 40 Credits.
  • Manufacturing Management, 40 Credits.
  • Logistics Management, 40 Credits.

    Work Integrated Learning:
  • Work Integrated Learning (4 months), 40 Credits.
  • Work Integrated Learning (8 months), 80 Credits. 
    		•

    EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES 
    1. Initiate, develop, implement and evaluate operational plans and projects to improve the effectiveness of a particular functional area within the supply chain.
    2. Monitor and measure performance and apply continuous or innovative improvement interventions for a particular functional area within the supply chain.
    3. Lead and manage a team of managers to enhance individual, team and functional area effectiveness within the supply chain.
    4. Apply the principles of risk, financial and corporate governance within internal and external regulatory frameworks to decision-making for a functional area within the supply chain.
    5. Enhance the development of teams and team members through talent management, diversity and leadership for a functional area within the supply chain.

    Specialisation Streams:
    6. Manage purchasing processes, tools and techniques and supplier relationships and ensure improvement and innovation in purchasing.
    7. Develop a manufacturing strategy, including facility management and asset care and ensure improvement and innovation in manufacturing.
    8. Develop a logistics strategy and ensure continuous improvement and innovation in logistics.

    Critical Cross-Field Outcomes:
    This qualification allows all the Critical Cross-Field Outcomes to be addressed. 

    ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA 
    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1:
  • Priorities are identified by considering a broad range of factors in solving problems and making decisions on operational plans in a functional area.
  • The need for and the benefits of continuous improvement are explained and recommendations are made to achieve intended results.
  • The initiatives to be undertaken by the functional area are linked to organisational goals and objectives.
  • Operational plans, projects and action plans are initiated and developed.
  • Operational action plans and projects are evaluated.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2:
  • The performance of the teams and the functional area within the supply chain is monitored and measured according to the systems and procedures of the entity.
  • Innovative and/or continuous improvement projects are applied according to generally accepted theory and practice.
  • Results are evaluated in relation to intended outcomes.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3:
  • The skills of each team member are evaluated according to the needs and operational requirements of the functional area.
  • The team is provided with direction towards fulfilment of organisational objectives.
  • Resources are identified and used by the leader to accomplish the objectives of the functional area.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4:
  • Risk in the functional area is managed by considering the impact and likelihood of a variety of internal and external factors.
  • The intended outcomes of the functional area are achieved by applying accepted principles and practices of financial management.
  • The desired outcomes of the unit are achieved within an individual ethical framework and according to the value system of the entity.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 5:
  • The acquisition and enhancement of skills is facilitated through people development processes.
  • Direction is given to employees on their possible career progression within the entity through coaching and other personal interaction.
  • Diversity in the team is recognised and harnessed in order to add value to team effectiveness.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 6:
  • An understanding is demonstrated of the strategic sourcing process.
  • Forecasting techniques are used to forecast the demand for products and services in order to optimise operational and distribution plans and activities.
  • International purchasing processes and counter-trade transactions are used to secure appropriate resources.
  • An explanation is given of how relationships with supply chain stakeholders are established that will benefit the effectiveness of the total supply chain.
  • Strategies are developed to optimise supply chain procurement operations and ensure customer satisfaction.
  • Capacity planning is conducted in order to balance supply and demand.
  • An understanding is demonstrated of the in/outsourcing decision and the implications of such a decision.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 7:
  • An explanation is given of the various manufacturing processes in terms of their impact on the operational strategy, the organisation and the supply chain.
  • Fundamental principles of risk management are applied to supply chain management.
  • A strategy is developed which optimises operational supply and flow.
  • An implementation monitoring plan is draw up for the operational strategy.
  • Production activities are planned in order to satisfy demand.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 8:
  • An explanation is given of the role and importance of a logistics function in the supply chain.
  • A logistics function and infrastructure is evaluated for efficiency in terms of the flow of materials and product through the supply chain.
  • A layout design is developed for a warehousing facility.
  • An inventory management plan is developed in a warehousing facility.
  • A distribution plan is developed.
  • Customer orders are processed according to standard operating procedures.

    Integrated Assessment:
    Integrated Assessment methods and tools will allow the learner to demonstrate that she/he has acquired knowledge of and can effectively apply competence in management and the application of supply chain planning, concepts and techniques in the fields of Procurement, Operations and Distribution.

    Assessment tools could include the following:
  • Written (e.g. tests/case studies/projects).
  • In-situ (on-the-job) observations.
  • Simulation.
  • Presentations and structured classroom discussions.
  • Portfolio of evidence.
  • On-line learning activities (Learning Portal, quizzes, blogs and downloads).

    The portfolio of evidence should be:
    Valid, reliable and authentic evidence from past achievements and experience which serves to supplement the assessment of applied competence.

    The portfolio should include inter alia:
  • Written statements from persons (e.g. current and/or previous employer, colleague, peer, manager, external customer) confirming competence of the learner.
  • Relevant certificates or awards.
  • Previous assessment records.
  • Journal/logbook.

    These methods must be carefully selected based on the purpose of the assessment (for example, the written method of assessing knowledge, or on-job demonstration of practical competence). The assessment must integrate a number of different methods in order to give the assessor reliable and valid proof of competence and evidence of required attitudes.

    Learners must be assessed against these performance criteria using a variety of assessment tools. 
    		•

    INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY 
    This Diploma in Supply Chain Technologies (D:SCT) is comparable to a variety of qualifications. In many countries the universities offer a programme or a Degree in logistics, production or purchasing management or a post graduate Diploma in Supply Chain Management. This programme provides relevant and practical skills in multiple functional areas of the supply chain.

    The Supply Chain Management sector around the world is aligned to three professional bodies, all European based, whose training programmes have international recognition. Most Supply Chain managers complete one or other of their programmes:
  • The Institute of Supply Management (ISM).
  • International Purchasing and Supply Chain Management (IPSCM).
  • The Association of Operations Management (APICS).

    The Association of Operations Management (APICS) Certified Supply Chain Professional Programme (CSCP) qualification is applicable to the learners identified for the D:SCT. The CSCP is also applicable to supply chain management in profit and not-for-profit organisations and allows for integration of all aspects of the supply chain as is the intention of the D:SCT.

    The CSCP programme includes the following learning:
  • Design and develop a supply chain strategy.
  • How to manage supplier and customer relationships.
  • How logistics, technology and data can enhance performance.
  • The integration of all processes in the chain.
  • International trade.

    There is a strong alignment between the CSCP and the D:SCT. Niether includes Contract and contract management which fits in with the responsibilities assigned to the identified learners of the D:SCT.

    New Zealand Institute of Management Incorporated (NZIM) offers a Diploma in Supply Chain Management (ID No. 108269). The qualification's main purpose is to develop successful learners to manage business relationships; integrate functions across business' supply chain management operations; measure and improve performance; develop a cost effective and service effective supply chain capability and understand primary principles of Supply Chain Management. The content for the qualification includes material management, physical distribution, logistics management, customer care, technology and a project.

    Conclusion:
    Qualifications in Supply Chain Management are accredited by the Chartered Institute for Supply Chain and this ensures the maintenance of the standards and keeping up to date with the latest trends within the sector. The Diploma in Supply Chain Technologies compares favourably with other qualifications indicated since the focus is to enhance the management of demand and supply of particular products. The qualification not only assists learners in managing and providing right products but also in how to utilise the technological resources available, including typical industry software applications to fulfil operational functions. 
    		•

    ARTICULATION OPTIONS 
    The Advanced Diploma in Supply Chain Technologies will articulate:

    Horizontally with the following qualifications at NQF Level 6 in a similar focus area such as:
  • Diploma in Logistics and Supply Chain Management.
  • Diploma in Supply Chain Technology.
  • National Diploma in Supply Chain Management.
  • National Diploma in Supply Chain Management in Sensitive Consumer Products.

    Vertically with the following qualifications at NQF level 7 such as:
  • Bachelor of Commerce in Supply Chain and Operations Management.
  • Bachelor of Commerce in Supply Chain Management. 
    		•

    MODERATION OPTIONS 
    Moderation takes place in accordance with Optimum Learning Technologies' Moderation Policy. This Policy provides a moderation process that verifies that assessments are fair, reliable, valid, practicable and transparent as well as evaluating the assessor's performance. External moderators are independent experts in their fields, with qualifications at least on the same level as the qualification being examined who are recommended by the Examining Academic Department for approval by the Faculty Board. 

    CRITERIA FOR THE REGISTRATION OF ASSESSORS 
    Any assessor must be a recognised expert in their discipline or sub-field with qualifications in the relevant discipline at a higher NQF level than that of the modules being assessed. The assessor should be currently teaching or have 3 years' experience of teaching in Higher Education and Training, or be recognised by academic peers as an authority in the particular discipline. 

    NOTES 
    N/A 

    LEARNING PROGRAMMES RECORDED AGAINST THIS QUALIFICATION: 
     
    NONE 


    PROVIDERS CURRENTLY ACCREDITED TO OFFER THIS QUALIFICATION: 
    This information shows the current accreditations (i.e. those not past their accreditation end dates), and is the most complete record available to SAQA as of today. Some Primary or Delegated Quality Assurance Functionaries have a lag in their recording systems for provider accreditation, in turn leading to a lag in notifying SAQA of all the providers that they have accredited to offer qualifications and unit standards, as well as any extensions to accreditation end dates. The relevant Primary or Delegated Quality Assurance Functionary should be notified if a record appears to be missing from here.
     
    1. Optimum Learning Technologies (Pty) Ltd 


    All qualifications and part qualifications submitted for public comment, or registered on the National Qualifications Framework, are public property. Thus, the only payment that can be made for them is for service and reproduction: it is illegal to sell this material for profit. If the material is reproduced or quoted, the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) should be acknowledged as the source.