This means that stock levels of raw materials, components, work in progress and finished goods can be kept to a minimum. This requires a carefully planned scheduling and flow of resources through the production process. Modern manufacturing firms use sophisticated production scheduling software to plan production for each period of time, which includes ordering the correct stock. Information is exchanged with suppliers and customers through EDI (Electronic Data Interchange) to help ensure that every detail is correct. The final aspect of this E-collaboration is new product development (NPD). The information hub can be used to deliver the efficiency and speed demanded for timely, new product development.

Product life has become shorter and shorter as technology improves at increasing rates this is called quick product rollover. Collaboration solutions enable real time contribution from engineers, product developers, and front end representatives to new products. Furthermore, Collaboration software allows for quick changeover to new suppliers and manufacturers to facilitate the changes in products. Electronic collaboration has brought the major benefits of the Internet to engineering and product development.