Supply chain leaders in the information technology industry face challenges regarding their ability to mitigate amplified demand and supply variability in a supply chain network--the bullwhip effect--and reduce adverse implications on their component supply chain networks. The purpose of this multiple case study was to explore the strategies supply chain leaders in the United States used to reduce the bullwhip effect. Bullwhip effect theory served as the conceptual framework. Participants in the study were 5 purposefully selected supply chain leaders in the state of Texas who successfully implemented strategies to reduce the bullwhip effect on their networks. Data were collected from semistructured interviews and analysis of documents from the participants' websites. The data were analyzed using the 5 data analysis steps consistent with Yin's approach: collection, stratification, reassembly, interpretation, and conclusion. Four themes emerged from data analysis: (a) collaboration strategy, (b) communication strategy, (c) component shortage reduction strategy, and (d) resource management strategy. Supply chain leaders might use the findings of this study to reduce the bullwhip effect within their networks and improve their profitability. The implications for positive social change include the potential for leaders to improve environmental sustainability by using effective supply chain strategies to reduce the accumulation of excess inventories, reduce transportation fuel usage, and lessen the consumption of natural resources.

Energimarknaden förändras till följd av den alltmer aktuella klimatfrågan. En ökad efterfrågeflexibilitet är en förutsättning för omställningen till förnyelsebara energikällor. Energilagring i batterier ses som en nyckellösning i framtidens elförsörjning. Ett alternativ är implementering av batterilager i byggnader hos slutkonsumenten. Uppsatsen undersöker vilka incitament som finns för en bostadsrättsförening att investera i batterilager. Resultaten visar att ekonomiska aspekter är avgörande för beslutet. Potential till minskade elkostnader samt investeringsstöd är möjligheter som värderas högst. Även hållbarhetsaspekter och miljöperspektiv ger incitament. Störst hinder för investeringen i batterilager är brist på utrymme i byggnaderna. / The energy market is changing due to the current climate issue. Increased demand flexibility is a prerequisite for the transition to renewable energy sources. Energy storage in batteries is seen as a key solution in the ectricity supply of the future. An alterantive is the implementation of battery storage in buildings at the end consumer. The thesis examines the incentives for a Swedish tentant-owner association to invest in battery storage. The results show that financial aspects are crucial for the decision. Potential for reduced electricity costs and investment support are opportunities that are highly valued. Sustainability aspects and environmental perspectives also provide incentives. The biggest obstacle to the investment in battery storage is the lack of space in the buildings.