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 way firms design, assemble, deliver, and support products and services, based on the infrastructure provided by Internet technologies. Traditional market econom firms and network economy firms follow different demand models. The market economy model is characterized by systems (people, process and technology) optimized for pushing product to the consumer. 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 constanly highlighting changes in information technology fueling online marketplaces, B2B hubs, etc. This book provides decision-makers with a framework to navigage through the sea of information to identify and capitalize on opportunities in the supply chain area.