Businesses, government agencies and other organizations around the world already use networks and information technology to connect their operations directly to their core constituencies including citizens, customers, employees, suppliers, contractors and distributors. The result is streamlined operations and reduced costs. For example, customers place orders electronically and check their account status or track package delivery online. Using new distribution models, companies centralize inventory and distribution functions. Finally, Global Electronic Commerce fosters more robust information exchanges allowing governments to be more responsive to citizens’ needs and enabling businesses to more precisely schedule the order and delivery of parts and supplies, reducing on-hand inventory while still meeting customer needs.