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E-manufacturing is concerned
with the use of the Internet and e-business technologies in manufacturing
industries. It covers all aspects of manufacturing - sales, marketing,
customer service, new product development, procurement, supplier
relationships, logistics, manufacturing, strategy development
and so on. The Interent also affects products as well since it
is possible to use Interent technologies to add new product functions
and to provide new services.
Manufacturing companies are
using the Internet successfully for many different purposes.
The scope of applications is large. Certain applications such
as supply chain management, procurement, trade exchanges, and
of course on-line sales have attracted a lot of attention in
the press. However, this should not blind people to the fact
that the Internet and e-business technologies can be used to
support all aspects of manufacturing enterprises' activities.
The challenge is to find the right application at the right time.
Application of the Internet
is not a one-off project, but a journey that involves dealing
with technologies, strategies, business processes, organisation
and people. Success will come to those firms adopting an integrated
approach driven by business needs and opportunities. |