I think I have mentioned before about the current diversification trend among mid-size ERP solution providers into SCM area. The motivation to do this is customers' preference to have few complete solution providers regarding their total systems. A recent this is Intuitive acquisition of SupplyWorks. Washington-based mid-market ERP software supplier Intuitive Manufacturing Systems Inc acquired supply chain management technology firm SupplyWorks Inc for an undisclosed sum this week.

SupplyWorks' technology helps multi-location manufacturers collaborate better with their suppliers. The SupplyWorks MAX suite is built on a Web-based supplier portal and supports functions like supply chain visibility, synchronization, automated replenishment, and performance measurement.

The technology will be absorbed into Intuitive's core ERP suite which is geared up for mid-market discrete manufacturers. Integration isn't thought to be a problem since both technologies are built on Microsoft's .NET foundation.

The move is in tune with an aggressive growth strategy that Intuitive launched this year. The company intends to sell SupplyWorks through its existing direct sales and new systems integrator channels.

Intuitive claims to have sold 1,000 corporate software licenses to manufacturers of electronics, industrial machines and fabricated metals.

Both Intuitive and SupplyWorks are privately-held companies. Financial details of the deal have not been made public.

Last November Intuitive was acquired by a little known Californian private equity firm called marlin Equity Partners. Marlin has a $60m fund.