Tools for business networks
Running a large multinational business requires rapid access to many types of ever-changing information. However, convenient tools allowing such access had not been previously developed, meaning business actions take longer than they otherwise might. The EU-funded FLEXINET (Intelligent systems configuration services for flexible dynamic global production networks) project successfully developed such tools. The set involves intelligent network configuration design services able to improve the design and reconfiguration of production networks. Other tools enable hypothetical comparison of costs, risks and compliance requirements for alternative production network design. The guiding concept was that one can quickly obtain all necessary information to begin work on a new initiative. To achieve its goals, the project set five specific objectives over three years relating to gathering information necessary to design and apply such tools. It built an understanding of how to develop its services to support user needs, producing three process models and use-case scenarios for each of three companies. Developments include a conceptual model consisting of six main components: business environment, domain, risk, value creation, value and financial. The team also produced a business rule book intended to guide business processes. Additional outcomes include definition of a model for strategic risk assessment of global production networks. The model considers dynamics and resilience of networks, allowing users to define risk scenarios and estimate losses for those scenarios. The team described a methodology for establishing tactical business models. Results describe how to accelerate the start-up of new business models, also providing a basis for analysis and assessment of the models. Another key achievement is a reference ontology whereby each of five levels draws from information in the above level and utilises it more specifically below. In parallel, applications that can be supported by FLEXINET were successfully defined. The most important outcome has been the FLEXINET platform, which extends the three key capabilities required to support fast, top-notch decision-making capabilities for business innovation. These are access to the right people, right information and right analysis tools. Importantly, the platform represents a one-stop shop to assess new business ideas, including what-if capabilities at value chain level. It is ideal for manufacturing companies that want to expand their market potential and minimise lead-time and associated costs. Now that businesses can rapidly obtain information necessary for starting a multinational venture, the new tools are expected to lead to considerable cost savings for users and improved business performance.
