B2B Exchanges Missing Critical Link
Integrators, Vendors Need To Tie Back-End Into Process
By Kelly Gollobin, Computer Reseller News
Waltham, Mass
6:52 PM EST Fri., Apr. 07, 2000
Solutions providers will be making hay integrating
electronic exchanges with back-end systems, according
to a study by Morgan Stanley Dean Witter.
The study estimated only about 5 percent of current
exchanges are integrated to back-end ERP systems,
creating a critical missing link in the ability of exchanges
to process transactions efficiently.
"System integration companies could profit from the
integration void," the study stated.
The examination of Internet B2B markets released this
week looked at who wins and loses in moving
commerce online.
Across most industries, the study found that buyers
will benefit more than suppliers from the market
efficiencies that exchanges introduce.
However, the study also found that a great deal of
integration work needs to take place before that
happens, and integrators and technology vendors will
need to supply the missing pieces over the next few
years.
"The technology infrastructure required for a net market is rapidly evolving because the
requirements are changing as buyers and sellers become more sophisticated," the study
stated. "Building an exchange isn't cheap, easy or fast."
The study estimated that companies will place $720 billion worth of orders online next
year, up from a projected $200 billion this year. By 2002, that figure could jump to $1.4
trillion. |
