Value Chain
Financial Dictionary — Business Strategy
Definition
Value Chain is the sequential set of primary and support activities that an enterprise performs to turn inputs into value-added outputs for its external customers. As developed by Michael E. Porter, it is a connected series of organizations, resources, and knowledge streams involved in the creation and delivery of value to end customers. Value systems integrate supply chain activities, from determination of customer needs through product/service development, production/operations and distribution, including (as appropriate) first-, second-, and third-tier suppliers. The objective of value systems is to position organizations in the supply chain to achieve the highest levels of customer satisfaction and value while effectively exploiting the competencies of all organizations in the supply chain.
Detailed Explanation
Value chain is the sequential set of primary and support activities an enterprise performs to turn inputs into value-added outputs for customers (Porter's value chain).
Common Uses
- Used in planning, organizing, and controlling business operations.
- Used when setting KPIs, policies, procedures, and improving processes.
- Used when setting KPIs, policies, procedures, and improving processes.
Practical Example
- Example: Management applies **Value Chain** when designing policies and monitoring performance against targets.
Why This Term Matters
- Why it matters: Improves execution, accountability, and decision speed while reducing operational waste.