Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP) Practice Exam

Why is it important for a demand manager to have good communication skills?

1. To avoid talking to upper management

2. To challenge managers on their inputs when necessary

3. To make friends with all employees

4. To facilitate social events

The correct answer is: To challenge managers on their inputs when necessary

A demand manager plays a crucial role in balancing supply and demand within an organization, which requires effective collaboration with various stakeholders, including sales, marketing, and production teams. Strong communication skills enable the demand manager to articulate their analysis of demand forecasts and challenge assumptions made by other managers. This constructive challenge is necessary to ensure that the inputs used for demand planning are accurate and realistic, ultimately leading to better decision-making and alignment within the organization. Furthermore, being able to engage in challenging discussions can help resolve discrepancies between different departments and lead to improved forecasts. This not only enhances the effectiveness of the demand planning process but also fosters a culture of transparency and analytical rigor within the organization. Therefore, good communication skills are indispensable for a demand manager to perform their role effectively and to drive organizational success.