Computer integrated supply chain

Information technology makes the inter-organisational coordination of activities feasible to implement effectively. This coordination of activities is the core of supply chain management. Information technology plays a central role in the development, functioning and success of virtual corporations. The role of virtual corporations in supply chains is described. A conceptualised information system that integrates the programmable design of a product and its manufacture with both planning activities and the manufacturing process is provided. This concept is expanded to the concept of computer integrated supply chain. The roles of both team approach to product design and the just-in-time concept in supply chain management are described. Issues involving the information technologies needed for intra- and inter-organisational coordination and integration of activities along supply chains are discussed.