Question: 1. Some claim that no sustainable competitive advantages can be gained from IT other than the capability of the IS organization itself. Do you agree or disagree? Defend your position.
2. Cisco Systems has a network of component suppliers, distributors, and contract manufacturers that are linked through Cisco's extranet. When a customer orders a Cisco product at Cisco's Web site, the order triggers contracts to manufacturers of printed circuit board assemblies when appropriate and alerts distributors and component suppliers. Cisco's contract manufacturers are aware of the order because they can log on to Cisco's extranet and link with Cisco's own manufacturing execution systems. What are the advantages of Cisco's strategic alliances? Does this Cisco example demonstrate SCM? Why or why not?