Technology in SCM

Many SCM vendors are beginning to push the envelope of their solutions by injecting the latest technology into their applications. In the next few years, expect these technologies to become mainstream in SCM.

• Web Services. This software framework and standards is designed to be used by other software via Internet protocols and formats. It will strengthen the weakest links in manufacturers' supply networks and cost-effectively connect with a dynamic array of partners.
• Extended Internet. The extended Internet is an integral part of the extended enterprise -- Internet devices and applications that sense, analyze, and control the real world. Manufacturers will tap the extended Internet to raise their supply network processes' real-world awareness through the use of sensors and smart tags attached to physical assets. IBM, HP and Sun Microsystems have all released their vision of grid computing and pervasive network computing.
• Agent-based software. Intelligent agents will automate the resolution of supply network exceptions and improve learning. SCEM will be revolutionized by this concept.
• Pervasive Mobile Computing. Enterprises today are now more dispersed and collaborative in nature. This has led to the need of business on the move, or mobile computing. No longer are businesses confined to fixed premises, road warriors now take their work out of their offices and direct to their customers and suppliers.