Information and Communication Technologies in Supply Chain Management

Abstract

One of the important fields of application of the modern information and communication technology (ICT) has been the Supply Chain Management (SCM). Despite the fact that ICT is the determining element in SCM automation and rationalization, practical use of ICT in SCM is in its starting rather than progressive phase. The present philosophy of logistics is characterized as coordinated cooperation between companies in supply chains, through which it is possible to achieve higher productivity than in any other way. These cooperation activities represent a typical content of logistical centers, which provide a wide range of services for their clients. This chapter focuses on designing a multi-integral logistical center and analyzing it from the aspect of its effectiveness. Also, other aspects, such as the impact of ICT on the development of virtual logistical centers and the development stages of SCM are presented. Moreover, the chapter outlines pitfalls of this development trend in an effort to provide practitioners in SCM with a more complex view of this issue.