E-Business Processes in Supply Chain Management
Summary
E-business processes in supply chain management encompass the digital orchestration of procurement, production, logistics and distribution through integrated information systems and online platforms. By leveraging tools such as electronic data interchange, cloud-based planning suites, blockchain-enabled ledgers and artificial intelligence for demand forecasting, organisations achieve real-time visibility, accelerated transaction cycles and enhanced traceability. These processes span online procurement portals, e-marketplaces, inventory management dashboards and collaborative planning environments, all of which converge to streamline order fulfilment, reduce lead times and optimise resource utilisation. The global significance of these developments lies in their capacity to foster resilience against disruptions, promote sustainability through reduced waste and emissions, and empower small and medium-sized enterprises to participate in complex international supply chains. While practical applications range from automated replenishment systems in retail to smart-contract-driven supplier payments in manufacturing, challenges persist in the form of interoperability gaps, data security risks and the need for workforce upskilling to harness the full potential of digital integration.
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E-Business Processes in Supply Chain Management publication trend
The graph below shows the total number of articles in e-business processes in supply chain management across all publications each year (not limited to Nature Index journals).
Technical terms
Digital procurement: The use of electronic systems and data analytics to automate sourcing, tendering, ordering and supplier management activities.
E-marketplace: An online platform that connects multiple buyers and sellers, facilitating transactions, price discovery and supply-chain integration.
Channel management: The coordination and optimisation of sales and distribution pathways—such as direct websites, third-party portals and mobile apps—to maximise reach and efficiency.
Technological opportunism: The strategic scanning and rapid adoption of emerging digital innovations to enhance business processes and competitive positioning.
References
- Sustainable business models of e-marketplaces: An analysis from the consumer perspective. Journal of Open Innovation: Technology, Market, and Complexity (2023).
- Benefits and Barriers of Digital Procurement: Lessons from an Airport Company. Sustainability (2023).
- The Relationship between E-Commerce and Firm Performance: The Mediating Role of Internet Sales Channels. Sustainability (2020).
- Exploring the Nexus Between E-Business Processes and Organizational Performance: Can Technological Opportunism Play Any Role?. Frontiers in Psychology (2022).
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