The metamorphosis to dynamic trading networks and virtual corporations

A process of turbulent change is taking place in which companies shape up to deal with the unremitting global competition for which there is an uncertain outcome. Businesses have to look at the wider horizons and dynamics of both their supply chains and markets to discover new ways of working with both customers and suppliers to grow and remain viable. The diverse industrial, commercial and operational practices and processes need to be remolded and target the collaborative aspects of relationships to the advantage of company performance and creation of new opportunities. This chapter outlines some of the constraining forces and suggests the parameters in which a business strategy and a course of action can be devised as a pathway to the future.