With the application of optimization models for supply chain network design and management well underway in Dow, the idea of automation of supply chain operations is now being pursued to maintain long term competitiveness.  This seminar will present the idea from the view point of process systems engineering.  The foundational pillars of supply chain visibility, work flow automation, and online supply chain models will be reviewed.  The presentation will examine the proposition of applying process automation methods to supply chain operations.   To illustrate the concepts, a successful application of a real time production scheduling model tied to a process control system will be presented.  The presentation will conclude by reviewing key concepts and next steps.