Supply chain integration via information technology: strategic implications and future trends

摘要

Efficient utilisation of information technology is an essential component of a successful supply chain management strategy. Two typical supply chain technologies are automatic identification and data capture, and the electronic transfer of information via electronic data interchange and/or internet collaboration. Examples of their applications are abundant in the literature. However, the strategic aspects of their selection and implementation have for the most part been neglected until recently, and much of the literature fails to address the human and process factors involved in deploying this technology. This paper presents a model for the strategic implementation of information technology in supply chain management based on an analysis of the long-term impact of these two technologies, along with relevant considerations concerning their execution. Discussion of their future in the light of possible technological developments is also included.