
232 ◾ Information Systems: What Every Business Student Needs to Know
electronically with suppliers’ information systems, further reducing delays and the oppor-
tunity for human error. Human checks may be applied to some of these steps, to prevent
actions from being taken automatically when a person knows that they shouldn’t be taken,
but these checks are designed not to delay the overall process.
Using computers in purchasing is part of supply chain management. It’s in the “connect-
ing with customers and suppliers” theme of the next chapter.
Production
Manufacturing rms use information systems to support production. Bill of materials pro-