It's more about sound business strategy and customer acquisition and retention than technology. Find ways to minimize the risk and downside in the inevitable squeeze play that some customers will attempt. Find a model that is MRO functional. Any model that adds another layer or added cost to transactions will not work. Transaction costs have to be reduced, not transferred.
Inventory has to be managed more effectively.
Avoid the internal catalog trap. Expect some customers to demand that you participate in an online exchange. Work with sound vendors. Beware of start-ups that are coming from outside the MRO environment that may not have the support organization or domain expertise. Some vendors are more focused on hiring, financing and market capitalization than fulfilling implementation needs.