Supply Chain Management (SCM) is an integrated approach to planning, implementing and controlling the flow of information, materials and services from raw material and component suppliers through the manufacturing of the finished product for ultimate distribution to the end customer. It includes the systematic integration of processes for demand planning, customer relationship collaboration, order fulfillment/delivery, product/service launch, manufacturing/operations planning and control, supplier relationship collaboration, life cycle support, and reverse logistics and their associated risks. These processes, which employ a combination of people, systems and technology, can be performed by the firm itself or in collaboration with external supply chain partners.