In a supply chain, information is a critical component that enables the smooth flow of goods and

services from suppliers to end consumers. Information in the supply chain refers to the data and
communication that is shared among the various stakeholders involved in the process, including
suppliers, manufacturers, distributors, retailers, and customers.

Some examples of information that may be exchanged in a supply chain include:

Product specifications and requirements: This includes details such as the type, quantity, and quality of
the product needed, as well as any specific packaging or labeling requirements.

Inventory and production data: This includes information on the quantity of raw materials and finished
products available, as well as production schedules and lead times.

Shipping and delivery information: This includes details on the mode of transportation, shipping routes,
and estimated delivery times.

Sales and demand data: This includes information on customer orders and sales forecasts, which can
help suppliers and manufacturers plan production and inventory levels.

Quality control data: This includes information on quality standards, inspection results, and product
testing data.

By sharing this information, stakeholders in the supply chain can make more informed decisions and
improve their operations. For example, suppliers can better plan their production schedules and
inventory levels based on sales forecasts, while retailers can ensure they have enough stock to meet
customer demand. Additionally, by having access to accurate and timely information, stakeholders can
identify potential issues and resolve them before they become major problems.

\
Completeness: It is the extent to which information contains details about all essential items or events
required for decision-making.

Understandability: Users can recognize the importance of the content when it is clear and simple to
understand. For instance, the information has to be presented in a language that the decision maker can
understand.

Availability: Information availability refers to the ability to access it as needed by the business process,
both now and in the future. It also has to do with preserving the capabilities and resources that are
required.

Accuracy: This is the similarity or agreement between the information and the real-world occurrences or
things that it reflects.

Timelines: Data should be gathered as soon as possible following the event or action and must be
accessible for the intended purpose within a reasonable amount of time. To support information
demands and affect service or management decisions, data must be made fast and regularly enough.
*The Role of IT in Supply Chain*

1. *Integrated and Coordinated Supply Chain*

A supply chain works efficiently when it is appropriately integrated and well-coordinated. IT performs
this crucial task by bringing in multiple technologies and combining them to optimise the supply chain.
These technologies make data collection possible and much easier and more accurate. This allows
precise and detailed data analysis leading to sound business decisions.

2. *Increased Productivity*

Smooth flow of information, new technologies and effective communication increase the productivity of
all entities in the supply chain. It is like a trigger for product movement. Instead of going back and forth,
IT provides the link that passes the needed information continuously.

3. *Cost Reduction*

IT permits the optimum utilisation of resources and assets. Old data is used to study the trends, and
technology is used to analyse it to improve performance. When resources are used optimally, they
result in cost reduction.

4. *Product Improvement*

IT consists of tools and applications that gain early awareness. In a market where consumers always
want something new, the product will have to evolve or go out of demand. To stay in business, you must
introduce product improvement and innovation sooner rather than later. The kind and extent of product
improvement are often validated with the help of IT.

5. *Supply Chain Visibility*

Information makes the entire supply chain visible to supply chain managers. The managers use how the
data flows from one collaborator to the other and the impact it has on others in strategic decisions.
Customer Relationship Management: This process involves managing the relationship with customers,
including activities such as order processing, demand forecasting, and customer service. The goal is to
create a positive experience for the customer and to ensure that their needs are met in a timely and
efficient manner.

Supplier Relationship Management: This process involves managing the relationship with suppliers,
including activities such as sourcing, procurement, and supplier performance management. The goal is
to establish mutually beneficial relationships with suppliers that provide high-quality goods and services
at a reasonable cost.

Internal Supply Chain Management: This process involves managing the internal operations of the
supply chain, including activities such as production planning, inventory management, and logistics. The
goal is to ensure that the supply chain operates efficiently and effectively, with minimal waste and cost.

•In summary, the supply chain process involves managing all aspects of the supply chain, from the
acquisition of raw materials to the delivery of the finished product to the customer. The three macro
processes of the supply chain – customer relationship management, supplier relationship management,
and internal supply chain management – are key components of this process and help ensure that the
supply chain operates efficiently and effectively.
The Transaction Management framework (TMF) serves as the framework for CRM, ISCM, and SRM.
Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems and their components are included. TMF is required for
CRM, ISCM, and SRM to operate and communicate with one another. The degree to which TMF allows
for integration across CRM, ISCM, and SRM.

Why is it necessary for an exporter to grasp the Transactional Relationship Diagram in the Supply Chain?
To begin, comprehending this diagram can assist you in determining whether your company is capable
of offering foreign purchasers open account terms, and if so, what kind of conditions. Second,
comprehending this diagram will help you better understand your cash cycle and assess whether you
require export financing solutions to manage the risks associated with open account commerce.

The Transactional Relationship in the Supply Chain is the time it takes for you (the exporter) to pay your
suppliers and for you to be paid by your buyers (the importer). In many circumstances, the overseas
purchasers who buy from you are not the same people.