傳媒報導

Managing Business with Intelligence

e-jing Technologies Limited develops technologies for software systems that enhance supply chain management.

HONG KONG, May 2003 -- Many enterprises have digitalised their business operations and implemented function-oriented IT such as accounting or enterprise resources planning (ERP) systems. However, these only focus on functional operations and do not take into account actual operations across staff, departments and companies; making them ineffective in solving many of today's management challenges.

To maintain competitiveness, companies have to find new and innovative ways to meet customers' requirements. Supply chain management (SCM) helps ensure each step along the supply chain adds customer value. It allows companies to increase transparency and enhance their operational efficiency, improve collaboration with other companies, and optimise resources.

Scientists at e-jing Technologies Limited (a spin-off company from the Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK)) create electronic infrastructures and solutions for corporations' procurement, outsourcing and sales processes. "e-jing has successfully developed a unique SCM system that contributes to the long-term success of its clients," says Mark Lee, e-jing's project manager.

To be competitive, logistical operations have to involve seamless co-ordination of goods production, material distribution and information flow across regions. Specialising in supplier relationship management, researchers at e-jing identified the need for an automated electronic procurement system and developed the software and systems to empower companies to conduct business activities on the Internet.

The Web-based interface means that any supplier with an Internet connection can access e-jing's system without the need to install additional software. "Users only need to announce their tenders once and the electronic workflow does the rest. This means there is no need for repetitive data entry, thus data entry errors are all but eradicated," he says.

Offering a high degree of flexibility, the system allows suppliers to review tenders and submit bids online. "Suppliers can even make changes and bid for documents prior to the closing deadline and receive immediate notification of whether or not they have been successful," says Mr Lee.

By adopting the latest web technology known as J2EE, e-jing transports users' business to the Internet and reduces the errors associated with traditional paper based processes. Suppliers and customers work remotely, yet closely with users through a common Internet platform. Vital time dependent information can be shared and delivered in real-time, and material sourcing and customer order taking is done online, reducing cost and increasing users' competitive edge.

Analytical reports are indispensable in any business as they help management to evaluate the performance of the supply, demand and value chains. "e-jing's solution automatically performs data mining and knowledge discovery on collected data to produce reports in real time," notes Mr Lee.

e-jing's user interface is designed for different skill levels and its customisation engine allows users to create their own views, menus, news and alerts.

From a user's perspective, CUHK's bursar Terence Chan is not surprised that over 400 companies registered on the new e-tendering system in its first three months. "One company secured over HK$200,000 worth of business from CUHK by tendering through e-jing," he says.

The system reduces manpower requirements and paper use, at the same time it increases transaction efficiency and offers easy access to a large pool of suppliers. As a result, procurement cost is reduced and the process itself takes place in a more open, fair and transparent environment.

e-jing has been successful in marketing its procurement platform to companies in different sectors, including electronics and garment manufacturers. It is now looking to integrate utilities from third-party providers in areas such as logistics and banking to further enhance its platform.

SCM systems integrate all functional units across enterprises, horizontally and vertically, and fill and optimise any gaps between these units to create opportunities and value.

Mr Lee believes that corporations exist to serve customers. "All businesses need suppliers and partners to collectively create a value network called the supply chain. Intelligent SCM enhances corporate efficiency and effectiveness. We hope by sharing our e-commerce solution with local enterprises to help transform them into information savvy, e-commerce enabled companies," concludes Mr Lee.

Source: Hong Kong Industrialist -- IT Profile

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