E-operations can be seen as a combination of operations strategy and effectiveness, and business technology – the intersection of operations and technologywhere IT or e-enablement are key drivers of operational transformation.

The Internet and e-enabling technologies offer potential for dramatic improvement in every facet of operations – but the means to obtain this improvement are not necessarily immediately apparent. McKinsey Consultants have identified five service lines where IT and e-factors are key enablers, and have been working with clients to help them to answer many of the following questions (by service line): » technology-enabling OE diagnostic:

» what operations performance potential can technology unleash?

» how would we characterize a company that is world-class in technology-enabled operations?

» what are some examples of best practices and improvement potential?

» how do you prioritize IT investments within operations?

» OE IT transformation for incumbents:

» how do you develop IT-enabled strategy, select vendors, and manage implementation?

» how do you unleash value from existing IT investments, such as ERP?

» what are the available technology solutions?

» how do you establish optimal sequencing for implementing an IT transformation?

» how do you achieve effective execution of a new OE IT system?

» how do you integrate the operating systems ofmerging companies?

» how do you build a platform off legacy operations systems for e-commerce and future flexibility?

» technology-enabled innovation for marketplaces:

» how do you build a trading exchange?

» what are the alternative business models and their operational implications and impact?

» what IT architecture do you use?

» how do you select and approach potential partners for the exchange?

» how do you manage this process?

» how do you determine fulfillment options?

» what are the best practices in governance and leadership to achieve full operational impact?

» strategy or opportunity scan for 3PL/4PL and OE technology providers:

» how do you develop a strategy and business plan for anOE software offering?

» how do you manage the implementation risk?

» where are there needs that are not being met?

» business building for 3PL and OE technology providers:

» howdo you develop a business plan and manage business building?

» how do you develop an architectural blueprint for the business?