The next generation demand network in quick response systems: Intelligent products, packet switching and dynamic information

This chapter discusses several innovations in information and communication technology and develops their potential to radically alter our view of the supply chain in quick response applications. Using the packet-switching framework as an analogy, it explores the way in which intelligent products may operate to dynamically adjust to market volatility. The changes will require new thinking in areas such as supply chain optimization and the handling of services in the supply chain or demaad network. The main contribution here is to extend the research framework for dynamic information management for quick response networks.