Process optimisation strategy.

As process manufacturers begin to realise the business potential and advantages brought about by the Internet, more and more are pursuing e-business strategies as a way to differentiate themselves from their competitors in a crowded market, according to a new report by the ARC Advisory Group.

The Internet, however, will affect individual vertical segments of the process industries differently. Downstream segments such as polymers, speciality fine chemicals, and pharmaceuticals will experience more demand for customised products and will have the opportunity to deal directly with end users the report suggests.

"E-business initiatives in the upstream segments …