ABSTRACT
It is obvious that supply chains are designed to move products from the point of origin to the ultimate consumer. What may not be so obvious is that information must flow both downstream and upstream in supply chains. In fact, information must flow before goods flow-someone must place an order. Information systems must initiate the flow of goods, track them during their movement, confirm their arrival, facilitate payments, and report on the results, just to name a few things they do. Information systems must surmount the hurdles of inconsistent or incompatible systems between supply chain participants. Information transparency is desirable, but the greater the transparency, the greater the risk of loss of privacy. As you read this company profile and the chapter in the book, think about these questions:
• Name some kinds of information needed in supply chains. Which is most important?
