Supply Chains to Virtual Integration

The technological changes occurring in the supply chain area are unfolding at a fast pace. There are fundamental changes occurring in the way firms design, assemble, deliver and support products and services, based on the infrastructure provided by Internet technologies. Traditional market economy firms and network economy firms follow different demand models. The market economy model is characterized by systems (people, processes and technology) optimized for pushing product to the customer. The network economy model is geared towards pulling product customized to the individual. This dichotomy is based on the premise that demand for product in a market economy firm, is fairly predictable. Demand for product in a network economy firm can be very unpredictable, disrupting the supporting supply chain. Supply chain systems to support these two ends of the spectrum are significantly different. This book is geared towards business and IT managers grappling with the business and information technology challenges in integrating elements of these two disparate models. Mainstream media are constantly highlighting changes in information technology fuelling online marketplaces, B2B hubs, etc. This book provides decision makers with a framework to navigate through the sea of information to identify and capitalize on opportunities in the supply chain area. There are huge benefits for organizations that are able to reduce waste in their supply chains. This book provides a business explanation of supply chain systems and prepares readers to deal with supply chain issues unique to their individual businesses. It shows readers how to identify and capitalize on opportunities from their existing business model and supporting supply chain. Managers charged with making technology acquisition decisions will get a business framework in order to evaluate technology options. Current books in the marketplace address the business issues at a very high strategic level and the tactical implementation guidelines are vague at best. This book takes the strategic drivers from a business perspective and maps them to tactical initiatives from a people, process and information technology standpoint. This book should remain relevant for years because it is not tied to any specific product or technology - rather it bridges the gap between high level strategy and tactical implementation in supply chain systems. Finally, the book gives a framework within which managers can evaluate their existing supply chains and target those elements for automation that present the highest ROI and minimal risk. IT management and analysts would be in a better position to guide their business partners in defining the appropriate technology solution after reading this book, thus, resulting in cost savings and greater chance of success in systems implementation.

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McGraw-Hill authors represent the leading experts in their fields and are dedicated to improving the lives, careers, and interests of readers worldwide McGraw-Hill authors represent the leading experts in their fields and are dedicated to improving the lives, careers, and interests of readers worldwide