Market Monitoring in Dynamic Supply Networks and Chains: An Internet-Based Support System for the Agri-Food Sector

Abstract

Enterprises in dynamic supply networks and chains with changing business partnerships are involved in complex dependency structures and interrelationships. Consequently, awareness of developments in the competitive and market environment is of paramount importance for economic success. The research presented in this paper deals with the conception of Internet-based support systems which supply actors in dynamic supply networks and chains with individualised information about their competitive and market environment. The paper builds on the situation in the agri-food sector but the discussions of the theoretical background and the principal system design generally apply to dynamic network scenarios. The paper presents a conceptual approach for a market monitoring system, which integrates results of research from a variety of scientific fields, utilises focused rule-based expert knowledge, and implements research-supported automation potentials. The design allows for information quality, efficiency and economic feasibility. First empirical results from experimental studies support the concept. The paper concludes with the discussion of a research outline for further validation initiatives in experimental and sector environments.