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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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