Cloud-Based Global Supply Chain: A Conceptual Model and Multilayer Architecture

The cloud manufacturing (C-Manufacturing) paradigm, as an advanced form of networked manufacturing, has recently been proposed based on a combination of existing manufacturing systems and emerging technologies, such as cloud computing, virtual manufacturing, agile manufacturing, manufacturing grid, Internet-of-things (IOT), and service-oriented technologies. In this study, through investigating the main goals of C-Manufacturing and today's hypercompetitive global marketplace circumstances, a prospective conceptual model called cloud-based global supply chain (CBGSC) has been developed which can overcome or mitigate the issues and risks associated with supply chain processes on a global scale. CBGSC extends the conventional three-tier customer–manufacturer–supplier supply chain model into a new five-tier customer–cloud provider of manufacturing applications (CPMA)–manufacturer–cloud provider of supplying applications (CPSA)–supplier model, in which the CPMA and CPSA tiers act as intermediators in order to enhance the diversity and intensity of the markets and businesses of conventional supply chain parties while securing their own profits. On the other hand, CBGSC enriches the notion of C-Manufacturing by incorporating CPSAs to safeguard smooth and continuous supply of raw materials and goods to manufacturers (physical resource providers), thus prevailing the “share to gain” philosophy within the whole network. Also, aiming to facilitate practicalizing the CBGSC, we have proposed a multilayer architecture for the CBGSC with seven layers of user, interface, application, service, resource virtualization and service encapsulation, perception, and resource, which are blended together via four basic aspects of security, optimality, resilience, and information technology (IT) and information and communications technology (ICT) infrastructure.