The applications and benefits of E-Business for improving supplier management in construction with emphasis on the Irish and German construction industries

Purpose: This dissertation investigates and analyses the use of the Internet and its support mechanisms, in improving efficiency along the Supply Chain with a view to achieving the optimum success in the European construction sector. It is believed that the European construction sector can make full use of advancements in modern technology, to allow for more effective collaboration among partners along the Supply Chain. An e-Business strategy was seen in this light as a means of allowing for parties to become connected and remain so via the Internet. Methodology: A critical review and appraisal of literature was carried out under four chapters: (a) The development of the Internet and its potential for e-Business; (b) Making use of Web applications for bridging the gap between organisations; (c) The impact of IT on Supply Chain Management in construction; and (d) Reviewing the opportunities benefits and challenges of an e-Business strategy. With one of the main objectives being to measure and analyse the applications, usage and benefits of e-Business in the Irish and German construction industry, in improving efficiency and allowing for better collaboration along the Supply Chain, a survey questionnaire was developed and distributed among selected construction and supply organisations in Ireland and Germany. Findings: Out of the entire research it was possible to acknowledge that the integration of Web based applications in Supply Chain Management in construction is essential for realising our preferred vision for the European construction industry, but it’s too early to really assess he full benefits of e-Business. It is at an early stage of development, involves a great deal of challenges and many construction and supply organisations have not yet developed and implemented e-Business within their organisations. Classification: Information and Communication Technologies (ICT