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A  VAN  connects  all  members  of  a  production  process  (every

               supplier,  manufacturer  and  distributor)  to  EDI.  For  example,  an

               automobile manufacturer may have an EDI system in place to manage its

               supply  and  distribution  relationships.  In  a  given  day,  the  auto

               manufacturer might receive thousands of yards of sheet metal, countless


               shipments  of  electronics  equipment  and  dozens  of  parts  from  various

               suppliers worldwide. Each of these shipments must pass through complex

               distribution  channels.  Since  the  shipments  are  essential  to  the  timely

               completion of an automobile, the manufacturer must make every effort to

               ensure that the products will be delivered on time. Operation personnel at






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