Information technology plays an important role in supply chain management by enabling information sharing and efficient coordination across organizations. IT allows gathering and evaluating large amounts of data to aid planning and decision making. It facilitates workflow coordination in real-time by enabling data synchronization between suppliers, stores, accounting departments and more. When implemented effectively, IT can provide competitive advantages like quick response, reduced costs and inventory, and improved customer satisfaction. The document discusses examples of how IT helps with material planning, procurement, receiving, reporting and equipment management in a healthcare supply chain.