Manufacturers need to stay closely connected on both the demand side and supply side of the value chain. On the demand side, being electronically connected with a network of dealers and distributors for products ensures that they are well-tuned to customer demand and can adjust their production schedules accordingly. On the supply side, being tightly linked with key suppliers allows them to minimize inventory and implement an efficient supply chain process. Security is important since the far-flung network of dealers will often use the Internet, rather than leased lines, for network connectivity.