ABSTRACT
This chapter examines supply chain technologies supporting supply chain strategies. We begin emphasising the importance of market driven customer focused supply chains. Customers are the raison d’être for supply chains. Supply chains are demand driven. Responsive, agile, flexible, resilient supply chain strategies rely on technologies to connect all parts of the supply chain. Recognising the importance of supply chain integration and how it is enabled through information and communication technologies we identify supply chain strategies. Technology creates opportunities for synchronization, collaboration, joint product developments, improved information flows, moving goods fast, efficiently and effectively through the supply chain system with better service to supply chain partners and customers. It is essential to have a forward window that predicts future demand. Technology improves forecasting and real-time data solutions providing timely, accurate information to manage supply chains. Integrating technologies that bridge processes between customers and suppliers across the total supply chain create efficiencies and synergies. Digital transformation is key to making supply chains efficient and effective. Virtual supply chains (VSC) offer better understanding of processes, their interactions and how to improve service in the supply chain. Cloud based technology solutions offer real-time solutions. Simultaneously connecting organizations to an ecosystem to leverage value.
