Coordination and Control are the key words in managing demand chains, and an orchestra is a great metaphor for a demand chain.
To work effectively a chain needs control in the sense of a conductor in an orchestra, who dictates the interpretation of a piece of music, and then co-ordinates the detailed contribution of the players.
The individual players need the detailed performance information about the mechanics of their contribution contained in the music, and a clear and unambiguous understanding of their role in the production of the complete sound of the orchestra from the conductor, including a clear understanding of the consequences on the whole, of a failure to perform to the agreed standard by them.
Without both types of information, the detail of the individual actions, and the understanding of how those actions fit into and enhances the whole, there is no possibility of an optimum outcome.
