Integration Of Supply Chain Execution In B2B-marketplaces - Experiences For Networks Of Small And Medium Sized Enterprises

Though B2B-marketplaces are still in the early phase of their existing, they had been subject of various adjustments. We can even identify several evolution steps in their development during the past few years. One of the most important developments is the integration of logistic services and the focus on the achievement of new business value through combined strategies involving e-business and Supply Chain Management (SCM). In particular for small and medium sized enterprises (SME) linking forces using B2B-marketplaces with supply chain optimization functionalities opens new horizons to improve inter-organizational processes. In this paper we outline the relationship between B2B-marketplaces and SCM and we argue that both concepts converge within modern models of B2B exchanges. A case study undertaken at a vertical marketplace in the furniture industry illustrates the results achieved through the integration of SCM functionalities with this marketplace.