The Internet remains crucial even in an economic slowdown, says researchers
Even in an economic downturn, companies must incorporate the Internet into their businesses to achieve immediate savings and remain competitive, conclude the authors of a new book, "e-Business: The Strategic Impact on Supply Chain and Logistics," commissioned by the Council of Logistics Management. Executives need to prepare their organizations for economic recovery by creating new operating models that serve current as well as prospective customers, say the authors, Michael Bauer and Chuck Poirier of Computer Sciences Corp. and Larry Lapide of AMR Research.
“Companies across the globe are leaving billions of dollars on the table by neglecting to enable new e-business models and improve operational efficiencies,” they say. The book seeks to define the impact of e-business on supply chain and logistics business operating models.
“Survival now means prosperity tomorrow," said Bauer, a partner in CSC`s North American Automotive Practice. "Executives need to think carefully about making the right strategic moves now to position their companies for competitive advantage in the future. They will need a proven methodology and a practical roadmap to use the Internet for the improvement of business processes and the creation of new business models."
"Like all new technologies that have preceded it, the Internet is another tool for businesses to compete with," says Lapide, vice president and general manager, Benchmarking Services, AMR Research. "Our research shows that leading so-called old-economy companies have recognized this and have started to leverage it to their advantage with strategies that start small and build from there. Our key conclusion is that e-business can be beneficially leveraged by companies of all shapes and sizes in a supply chain, not just by the channel or network masters."
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