Understanding the advanced manufacturing industry's e-marketplace stakeholder requirements : a case study of the Australian tooling industry

The proliferation of low cost imports from countries such as China and India and aggregated global supply chains are threatening the viability of Australia’s $1 billion tooling industry. The industry is characterised by numerous small owner-operators and few large firms. The literature suggests that e-marketplaces may increase the industry’s efficiencies and opportunities. This study identifies the requirements of the Australian tooling industry e-marketplace through an analysis of stakeholder requirements using in-depth interviews of 35 senior managers. Findings suggest that an e-marketplace will provide members and other stakeholders with access to information storage, manipulation and delivery capacities to increase efficiencies, enhance the development of collaborative programs, and increase export opportunities