
447How to Build an Integrated Supply Chain
Communication
Informal and formal networks make it possible to communicate between entities, both within
the company and with supply chain partners. It is technology driven, but people dependent;
is fraught with lack of incompatible or local standards; involves various modes, telephone,
fax, e-mail, intranet, electronic data interchange (EDI), and the Internet, with all of the pos-
sible combinations, and includes social media sites; and, above all, is continuallyevolving.
This phase involves designing and implementing the data exchange systems needed to
achieve the instantaneous transfer of data, both ...