A DTI led industry/government partnership, has launched a new initiative aimed at encouraging small and medium sized companies in the manufacturing industry to exploit existing technology and enjoy the full benefits of supplying electronically.
Although companies in the manufacturing and engineering sector are already aware of the impact technology can have on the supply chains they are in, many of them are still not taking advantage of technology solutions to improve their own business processes. To introduce companies to the key concepts of supplying electronically, UK online for business has developed real life case studies, focusing on small manufacturing companies which have applied technology to where it makes a real difference. A leaflet on how to develop and exploit an online strategy in the manufacturing sector has been produced and new business guides are also available on supplying electronically and customer service, order taking, product development, purchasing, delivery, production and stocks.
Wendy Ashton of UK online says: "Given that around 70 per cent of business costs are supply chain related, large customers are demanding leaner supply chains. To compete, it is vital that companies integrate all their business processes - from order processing, purchasing, forecasting and planning through to materials handling, warehousing, distribution and customer service. This will lead to simpler, more productive and more resourceful supplier-customer relationships as well as tangible business benefits."
www.ukonlineforbusiness.gov.uk/supply