UK online for business offers help in e-enabling supply chains

UK online for business, the DTI-led industry and Government web-based partnership, has launched three free resources for SMEs (small and medium sized companies), and particularly those in manufacturing industry, to help them make the best of the opportunities of e-business. They are the ‘Supplying Electronically’ CD ROM, the ‘Linking for Success’ booklet and the online ‘Resource Guide’, detailing the material which is available on supply chain issues. All are available via the UK online for business Infoline on 0845 715 2000 or at http://www.ukonlineforbusiness.gov.uk/supply Wendy Ashton from UK online for business insists that e-business is no longer the preserve of the big boys. “Since every business buys and sells, every business forms part of a supply chain. A supply chain’s integrity can be affected if you fall behind your partners in adopting e-business processes, as a supply chain is only as strong as its weakest link. “It is therefore vital that you keep pace with technology developments to ensure that you continue to build collaborative relationships with your customers and suppliers.” The CD ‘Supplying Electronically’ provides information on e-enabling trading relationships, with technology solutions for supply chain-related business issues across seven key processes – product development, purchasing, stock control, production, order taking, delivery and customer service. It’s easy to use, and there are jargon-free technology fact sheets covering everything from EDI to selling on-line, as well as recommended action plans, publications and Internet links to relevant web sites. There’s also 30 fact sheets on the main technology issues and 70 case studies from different industry sectors. Meanwhile, the booklet, ‘Linking for Success’, which complements the CD, covers how supplying electronically can make business relationships simpler, more productive and more effective. The DTI says it’s aimed at helping managers understand their own supply chains and thus how new technology solutions fit in profitably. Finally, the ‘Resource Guide’ provides a list of what else is available. To order any of these or to find the nearest UK online for business adviser contact the Infoline on 0845 715 2000 or go to http://www.ukonlineforbusiness.gov.uk/supply