The power of technology is completely transforming business operations, radically boosting speed, efficiency, and shareholder value. One of the newest and most promising applications of electronic technology is in supply chain management, the distinctly unglamorous but absolutely essential steps that take place between procuring raw materials and shipping final products. For executives and managers involved in manufacturing supply chains--whether suppliers, manufacturing assemblers, wholesalers/distributors, retailers, or transportation providers--this practical, step-by-step guide explains how to create cost-effective, state-of-the-art fulfillment capabilities. Packed with relevant examples, each chapter focuses on improving supply chain technology, processes, and people in specific industries, including :



* Retail

* Consumer products

* E-trading communities

* High-tech manufacturing

* Hosted applications

* Automotive

* E-exchanges

* Oil and gas

* Transportation

* E- business front-end

* Health care pharmaceuticals, and more.



An insightful text giving the reader a glimpse of the big picture of the advances in supply chain management in the Internet age. Teaches, specifically, how interactive customer Web sites are changing the way it's done, how Web-based technologies are making business more efficient, and how Transportation Exchanges are beneficial to everyone.