The eSupply Chain is advancing rapidly on several fronts. We see it in the emergence of trading exchanges that promise participants new levels of cost savings and transactional efficiencies. It's evident, too, in the growing number of other Web-based solutions that enable trading partners to collaborate more effectively for mutual advantage.

One of the most compelling benefits of the new Internet-enabled technology is the ability to facilitate true synchronization across the supply chain. That means making intelligent decisions regarding sourcing, stocking levels, and production capacity to achieve competitive service levels at the best possible costs—regardless of where in the world you compete.

The articles in this special supplement to Supply Chain Management Review are intended to help readers navigate the sometimes-treacherous waters of the eSupply Chain. Successful navigation is, however, an absolute imperative. Going forward, how successfully companies leverage the power and potential of the eSupply Chain will be a pivotal determinant in their business success.