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INTER-ORGANISATIONAL SYSTEMS IN A CONSUMER PACKAGED GOODS NETWORK: CASE OF GODREJ CONSUMER PRODUCTS LIMITED (GCPL)

Anjali Kaushik

This paper reports a case study of the inter-organisational systems (IOS) at Godrej Consumer Products Limited (GCPL). The paper provides valuable data on planning of IOS and its effect on supply network competitiveness. GCPL has taken specific initiatives to integrate distributors, retailers and the suppliers across its extensive supply networks. This study shows that different supply chain partners in an actorbased business network may require separate information system planning and design. This case presents a differentiated analysis of the design elements (e.g. relationships, processes, systems as well as change issues) from the perspective of a major player in the Indian Consumer Packaged Goods (CPG) Industry. This study highlights the need for coordination among various IOS initiatives and between network partners and business managers of the key actor. It also focuses on the qualitative and quantitative benefits achieved for all partners through strategic planning of IOS and adds valuable information to the business relevance of IOS investments. Key Words : Supply Chain, Inter-organisational Systems (IOS), IT Value, Critical Success Factor (CSF), Consumer Packaged Goods (CPG), India

INTRODUCTION

A

S organisations rely more on collaboration with the partners to enhance their position in business, they look beyond their traditional information system boundaries. Many organisations use IT-based inter-organisational information systems as a strategic tool to link partners in the supply chain. GCPL is such a case study from the Consumer Packaged Goods (CPG) sector in India. GCPL has successfully implemented three IT based IOS initiatives with dealers (Sampark), with suppliers (Sahayog) and with retailers (Sampoorna). The main objective of these IOS is standardisation of inter-organisational processes and...