Charles V. Trappey

Global content management services for product providers and purchasers

This research defines a method for developing eXtended Markup Language (XML)-based content management services for global product manufacturers and distributors. Content management services for multi-channel trades play an important role in e-business because it enables the seamless flow of product information between suppliers, manufacturers, distributors and customers. In todays business world, transactions over the Internet are growing rapidly requiring constant and dynamic information sharing and exchange among business partners. Thus, globally compatible content management services are essential to serve the modern business community. This research defines, develops and integrates new technologies and methodologies into a global content management (GCM) services platform. The platform provides a multi-functional system architecture that defines XML schema as a neutral product content representation, proposes a suitable content search engine, implements a Web user interface for a variety of content users, and provides Web tools for e-content creation, maintenance and management. The GCM system links to other content management and transaction platforms so that end-users can use multi-channel services to procure, market and sell products globally.

Global logistic management for overseas production using a bulk purchase 4PL model

In order to improve the quality of the components supplied by key suppliers and delivered to the final assembly sites overseas efficiently and timely, a new logistics business model and assessment analysis are proposed using services provided by fourth-party logistics (4PL) companies. In the research, a Petri Net process modeling approach is adopted to construct the model and identify the current bottlenecks discovered in the as-is (existing) logistic processes. According to the benefits of the proposed e-logistics information system and its to-be process improvement, total operating time and total operating costs can be reduced 41% and 21% respectively. The global logistics information platform is built to enhance the logistics management efficiency of manufacturers with multinational operations for improving their global competitiveness.