114 Roadmap to the e-Factory
even individual, orders. As a result, manufacturers must sell more individual
orders to make the same revenue once generated from fewer but larger orders.
New companies are being formed which provide software and Internet-
based services that are completely changing how manufacturers view their
business and manage transportation. Manufacturing companies can now get
everything they need from a software package, an Internet exchange, or an
outsourcing company. Benefits include the ability to measure a carrier’s
performance and gain control over maverick transportation spending by
negotiating volume service agreements.
Successful LX portals will offer transportation management software, pro-
vide visibility to shipments, and ...