CIO: Supply Chains Need to Harness IT

Feb. 7, 2011
Software-driven business processes can create a competitive edge, says MSC Industrial Directs Bonomo.

As the landscape for procurement has grown more complex, volatile and uncertain, distributors are being forced to transform their organization with information technology, according to Charles Bonomo, vice president and CIO of MSC Industrial Direct.

That shift has been dictated by computing power, the Internet and software-driven business processes that are no longer niche technologies, but standard tools available to businesses large or small.

Bonomo was a guest presenter at the National Association of Wholesaler-Distributors NAW 2011 Executive Summit back in January in Washington, D.C., where he emphasized that IT resources need to refocus on the areas across the supply and value chain where a competitive advantage can be created.

One specific area where MSC has staked this edge involves its Customer Supply Chain Solutions, which are modeled off vending machine-based on-site distribution, customer managed inventory, vendor managed inventory, ERP punch out, and web-based solutions to simplify a customers procurement process.

Software-driven business processes are becoming standardized and inter-connectable, especially in terms of cloud computing, said Bonomo. Such advancements are allowing us to assemble applications (business functionality) regardless of where the computing source resides or what the basis of the technology is to better serve our customers.

Popular Sponsored Recommendations

Are You Positioned To Tackle Supply Chain Risk?

Sept. 20, 2023
Supply chain disruption is here to stay, but you can keep ahead of potential issues — and identify new opportunities — by regularly assessing your suppliers. Download our supplier...

Modern Edge Computing Accelerates Smart Manufacturing Initiatives for Discrete Manufacturers

Oct. 22, 2023
Discover how Edge Computing platforms are a requisite for discrete manufacturers to solve production challenges, accelerate digitalization, and establish a reliable infrastructure...

Digitally Transforming Data and Processes With Product Lifecycle Management

Oct. 29, 2023
Manufacturers face increasing challenges in product development as they strive to consistently deliver improved results. Discover how industry leaders are improving time-to-market...

Reimagine Supplier Collaboration to Build the Supply Chain of Tomorrow

May 22, 2023
To realize success, organizations must create a supply chain management approach that can continuously absorb change—and turn it into a competitive advantage.

Voice your opinion!

To join the conversation, and become an exclusive member of IndustryWeek, create an account today!