This paper explains that effective supply chain management (SCM) seeks to integrate purchasing, materials management, quality
management, demand management, distribution planning, and manufacturing planning; the focus of managing an effective supply chain is on the entire chain, including where and how the products are sourced, delivered, and merchandised to the customer. The author points out that the Internet, an enhancement to the various
telecommunications tools companies use to support their supply chain operations, is especially useful to retailers in expanding communications and disseminating information, ordering products, and communicating levels of supplies. The paper relates that, in sharp contrast to the limitations of past years, supply chain managers today can effectively use customer databases to help
synchronize supply chain operations with consumer needs. Table of Contents Introduction Statement of the Problem Background Discussion Conclusions Recommendations