Much discussed, little conceptualized: supply chain volatility

2018 ◽  
Vol 48 (8) ◽  
pp. 866-886 ◽  
Author(s):  
Benjamin Nitsche ◽  
Christian F. Durach
Keyword(s):  
Supply Chain ◽  
Conceptual Framework ◽  
Q Methodology ◽  
Decision Makers ◽  
Synthesis Process ◽  
Future Research ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Moderating Variables ◽  
Meta Level ◽  
Practical Implications

Purpose A conceptual framework of supply chain volatility (SCV) is developed to help researchers and practitioners converge their discussions and understandings on this vital phenomenon. Sources, dimensions and moderators of SCV are investigated and a conceptual framework is proposed. The paper aims to discuss these issues. Design/methodology/approach Data triangulation was performed through reviewing 2,789 peer-reviewed articles and conducting a group exercise with 23 practitioners. Consequently, 364 sources were identified. Through a structured synthesis process that built on the Q-methodology with multiple academics, a framework of meta-level sources, dimensions and moderators of SCV was developed. An additional on-site meeting with 17 practitioners was conducted aiming at delineating the dimensions by their effect on SCV. Findings The authors propose 20 meta-level sources that contribute to five distinct dimensions of SCV, proposing behavior of customers and decision makers as contextual moderating variables. A classification scheme consisting of three descriptive SCV-affecting characteristics is proposed to delineate the dimension’s effect on SCV: relative deviating impact, repetitiveness and influenceability. Results are summarized in 15 propositions. Research limitations/implications The paper extends knowledge on SCV and provides a coherent conceptualization of the phenomenon for future research. The proposed framework demands quantitative testing to derive more reliable conclusions. Practical implications The framework aims at reducing the gap between research and practice. It helps managers to understand researchers’ discussions and how to derive expedient implications from them. Originality/value It is the first study that systematically synthesizes widely spread literature in this field to derive a conceptual framework that seeks to explain SCV in a holistic way.

Blinded by the light? Analyzing sustainability authenticity, customer service perceptions, and halo effects

2019 ◽  
Vol 30 (1) ◽  
pp. 117-139 ◽  
Author(s):  
Clinton Amos ◽  
Sebastian Brockhaus ◽  
Amydee M. Fawcett ◽  
Stanley E. Fawcett ◽  
A. Michael Knemeyer
Keyword(s):  
Supply Chain ◽  
Customer Service ◽  
Design Methodology ◽  
Corporate Sustainability ◽  
A Priori ◽  
Decision Makers ◽  
Behavioral Experiments ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Sustainability Initiatives ◽  
Practical Implications

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to evaluate how service perceptions influence customer views of the authenticity of corporate sustainability claims. The goal of this paper is to help supply chain decision-makers better understand boundary conditions in order to design more enduring and impactful sustainability programs.Design/methodology/approachThe authors employ behavioral experiments, subjecting two theoretically derived hypotheses to verification across five diverse industries and two distinct sustainability vignettes.FindingsCustomer service perceptions emerge as a significant boundary condition to the perceived authenticity of sustainability efforts. Subjects attributed significantly higher authenticity toward sustainability efforts in above average vs below average service quality contexts. Further, respondents attributed deceptive motivations to sustainability efforts at companies with below average service.Research limitations/implicationsThe authors confirm the underlying tenet of social judgment theory, which suggests thata prioriperceptions create a zone of acceptability or rejection. Ultimately, investing in sustainability can lead to counterproductive cynicism.Practical implicationsThe authors infer that customers’ willingness to give companies credit for sustainability initiatives extends beyond service issues to any practice that influencesa prioriperceptions. Supply chain managers must rethink their role in designing both customer service and sustainability systems to achieve positive returns from sustainability investments.Originality/valueThe authors challenge the assumption that customers universally positively view sustainability efforts. If customers holda priorinegative service perceptions, otherwise well-designed sustainability programs may invoke cynical reactions. Thus, sustainability programs may not inoculate firm reputations from adverse incidents. Given they touch both service and sustainability systems, supply chain managers are positioned to holistically influence their design for competitive advantage.

Sustainability balanced scorecard architecture and environmental performance outcomes: a systematic review

2021 ◽  
Vol ahead-of-print (ahead-of-print) ◽  
Author(s):  
Suaad Jassem ◽  
Zarina Zakaria ◽  
Anna Che Azmi
Keyword(s):  
Conceptual Framework ◽  
Balanced Scorecard ◽  
Environmental Performance ◽  
Performance Outcomes ◽  
Decision Makers ◽  
Future Research ◽  
Double Blind ◽  
Holistic Model ◽  
Content Type ◽  
The Relationship

PurposeThis study aims to assess the current state of research on the use of sustainability balanced scorecards (SBSCs), as they relate to environmental performance-related outcomes. It also seeks to present a conceptual framework proposing relationships between SBSC and environmental performance.Design/methodology/approachThis paper conducts a systematic literature review of articles published in double-blind peer-reviewed journals that are listed on Scopus and/or Web of Science databases.FindingsThe first part of the paper reveals that two architectures of SBSC appear to be dominant in the literature (SBSC-4 where sustainability parameters are integrated with the four perspectives of the balanced scorecard and SBSC-5 where sustainability is shown as an additional standalone fifth perspective). The next part of the paper presents a conceptual model relating SBSC as decision-making tools to environmental performance outcomes. The paper also indicates that SBSC knowledge mediates the above relationships. Furthermore, based on the theory of expert competence, the presence of experts possibly moderates the relationship between SBSC architecture and environmental performance outcomes.Research limitations/implicationsThe literature indicates a lack of consensus on establishing a clear linkage on the relationship between SBSC architecture and environmental performance outcomes. As a result, a holistic conceptual framework where SBSC knowledge acts as a mediator and presence of experts as a moderator may be able to provide a more consistent relationship between SBSC architecture and environmental performance outcomes.Practical implicationsThe conceptual framework proposed provides factors to be considered by decision makers, for effective outcomes when aiming to achieve environmental stewardship objectives.Social implicationsEnvironmental performance by business organisations have come under close scrutiny of stakeholders. As a result, the holistic model proposed in the current study may pave the path for decision-makers to achieve superior environmental outcomes, leading to greater satisfaction of stakeholders such as the communities that are impacted by the business operations of an organisation.Originality/valueThis is the first paper to propose a model for future research regarding the link between SBSC and environmental performance outcomes – with expert managers acting as moderators and SBSC knowledge acting as a mediator.

Supply chain resilience: a systematic literature review and typological framework

2018 ◽  
Vol 48 (8) ◽  
pp. 842-865 ◽  
Author(s):  
Cigdem Gonul Kochan ◽  
David R. Nowicki
Keyword(s):  
Supply Chain ◽  
Literature Review ◽  
Systematic Literature Review ◽  
Future Research ◽  
Exploratory Research ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Supply Chain Resilience ◽  
Assessment Techniques ◽  
Practical Implications

PurposeThe study of supply chain resilience (SCRES) continues to gain interest in the academic and practitioner communities. The purpose of this paper is to present a focused review of the SCRES literature by investigating supply chain (SC) capabilities, their relationship to SCRES outcomes and the underpinning theoretical mechanisms of this relationship.Design/methodology/approachThe paper uses the systematic literature review approach to examine 383 articles published between 2000 and 2017, ultimately down selecting to the most relevant 228 peer-reviewed studies. Context-interventions-mechanisms-outcomes (CIMO) logic is applied to organize and synthesize these peer-reviewed studies. A typological framework is developed from the CIMO-based classification of the SCRES literature.FindingsThe findings of this study outline the gaps in the SCRES literature and present an agenda for future research.Research limitations/implicationsThis paper presents an exploratory research; therefore, the typological model presented is just one of the possible perspectives.Practical implicationsThe typology of SCRES literature can help practitioners to understand SCRES and to measure and assess the resilience of SCs.Originality/valueThe paper provides clear definitions of SCRES constructs, develops a typological framework to further understand SCRES and identifies SCRES measures and assessment techniques.

Industry 4.0 and digital supply chain capabilities

2019 ◽  
Vol ahead-of-print (ahead-of-print) ◽  
Author(s):  
Maciel M. Queiroz ◽  
Susana Carla Farias Pereira ◽  
Renato Telles ◽  
Marcio C. Machado
Keyword(s):  
Supply Chain ◽  
Industry 4.0 ◽  
Business Models ◽  
Future Research ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Integrative Framework ◽  
Starting Point ◽  
Narrative Literature ◽  
Practical Implications ◽  
Shed Light

Purpose The Industry 4.0 phenomenon is bringing unprecedented disruptions for all traditional business models and hastening the need for a redesign and digitisation of activities. In this context, the literature concerning the digital supply chain (DSC) and its capabilities are in the early stages. To bridge this gap, the purpose of this paper is to propose a framework for digital supply chain capabilities (DSCCs). Design/methodology/approach This paper uses a narrative literature approach, based on the main Industry 4.0 elements, supply chain and the emerging literature concerning DSC disruptions, to build an integrative framework to shed light on DSCCs. Findings The study identifies seven basic capabilities that shape the DSCC framework and six main enabler technologies, derived from 13 propositions. Research limitations/implications The proposed framework can bring valuable insights for future research development, although it has not been tested yet. Practical implications Managers, practitioners and all involved in the digitalisation phenomenon can utilise the framework as a starting point for other business digitalisation projects. Originality/value This study contributes to advancing the DSC literature, providing a well-articulated discussion and a framework regarding the capabilities, as well as 13 propositions that can generate valuable insights for other studies.

A new conceptual framework for identifying the factors influencing the effectiveness of competitive intelligence

2020 ◽  
Vol 30 (5) ◽  
pp. 555-576
Author(s):  
Somayeh Asghari ◽  
Sahar Targholi ◽  
Ali Kazemi ◽  
Saeed Shahriyari ◽  
Lila Rajabion
Keyword(s):  
Organizational Culture ◽  
Knowledge Management ◽  
Statistical Analysis ◽  
Conceptual Framework ◽  
Knowledge Sharing ◽  
Competitive Intelligence ◽  
Future Research ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Practical Implications

Purpose Competitive intelligence (CI) collects data through the distribution of knowledge to make decisions in a competitive environment. To better comprehend the concept of CI, the purpose of this paper is to determine the role of effective factors (knowledge sharing, competitor information, information technology (IT) and organizational culture) and their impact on CI. In addition, the paper provides a conceptual framework for determining the practical factors on CI. Design/methodology/approach For evaluating the elements of the model, a questionnaire is considered. Questionnaires were reread by specialists with significant experiences in the CI field. For statistical analysis, the SPSS 22 and SmartPLS 3.2 software package is also used. Findings Findings from the study showed the validity of the model for a CI assessment. Furthermore, the results confirmed that the competitor information significantly influenced CI. In addition, the obtained results implied that IT has a significant and positive influence on CI. The effect of organizational culture on CI also proved to be positive and significant. Research limitations/implications This paper makes significant contributions for both researchers and practitioners; however, the authors determine some limitations, which are as follows: First, the authors showed the result in a single region. It cannot be assured that the results are generalizable to other areas. Second, because of time and financial constraints, the authors gathered the data using a sample from a single location. Third, the use of variables to depict CI may be not exhaustive. The authors, therefore, encourage future research to study these CI dimensions. Practical implications This study meaningfully contributes to the knowledge and literature by focusing more on CI, examining other significant aspects and applying advanced statistical analysis method. Also, current research results suggest practical implications for marketing practitioners and managers who implemented tools and made strategic plans to enhance the organization’s performance. From a practical perspective, the statistical results support the crucial role of the following factors: IT, competitor information, organizational culture and knowledge sharing on CI. Originality/value Experts in the area of knowledge management, CI and strategic management can use this study to gain a competitive advantage based on knowledge and information resources. Organizations must have knowledge management function and CI to support the strategy formulation, implementation and evaluation.

Leanness and agility: a comparative theoretical view

2017 ◽  
Vol 117 (1) ◽  
pp. 149-165 ◽  
Author(s):  
Nesrine Eltawy ◽  
David Gallear
Keyword(s):  
Systematic Review ◽  
Supply Chain ◽  
Supply Chains ◽  
Conceptual Framework ◽  
Deep Understanding ◽  
Future Research ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Comparative Review ◽  
Concept Review ◽  
The Relationship

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to compare and distinguish between two salient means for improving the management of, and leveraging the effectiveness of, supply chains. Leanness and agility have been considered recently as prominent and successful means for competing. The paper examines the literature on leanness and agility thinking including their definitions, importance and practices. The paper also highlights the argument surrounding the relationship direction between these two concepts. Design/methodology/approach A systematic comparative review was conducted on the lean literature and agility literature at three levels: manufacturing, organisation and supply chain. The systematic review on the lean concept has been conducted based on articles published over the last two decades. The agility concept review was conducted based on the articles published from its inception in 1991 through early 2016. Findings A conceptual framework is presented following the in-depth review. The conceptual framework sets out the input, operational practice and output elements necessary for both philosophies to take root successfully. A discussion based on the review of the literature on the direction of the relationship between leanness and agility is also presented, and should also be included in any future empirical testing of the conceptual framework. Research limitations/implications The paper is based on a systematic review which extends previous research as it has been conducted in a detailed and clear systematic manner which enables a deep understanding of the similarities and differences between leanness and agility philosophies from an operational perspective: inputs, operational and outcomes elements. Future research is required to empirically test the conceptual relationships. Practical implications Companies are constantly searching for ways to improve their supply chains. This paper seeks to provide a deep understanding for lean and agility philosophies as important means for achieving this goal. This has been conducted by clarifying the differences, similarities and the direction of the relationship that may exist between these two approaches as means for improving a company’s supply chain. Originality/value Based on a systematic review on leanness and agility philosophies, a conceptual framework exploring the differences and similarities between both philosophies from an operational systematic perspective is presented.

Information-based quality management in reverse logistics supply chain

2019 ◽  
Vol 26 (7) ◽  
pp. 2146-2187 ◽  
Author(s):  
Ruchini Senarath Jayasinghe ◽  
Nicholas Chileshe ◽  
Raufdeen Rameezdeen
Keyword(s):  
Supply Chain ◽  
Quality Management ◽  
Thematic Analysis ◽  
Reverse Logistics ◽  
Regulatory Environment ◽  
Future Research ◽  
Market Demand ◽  
Demolition Waste ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Practical Implications

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to explore the synergies among reverse logistics supply chain (RLSC), quality management (QM) and information management (IM) concepts to enhance the effectiveness of demolition waste management (DWM) practices. Design/methodology/approach A systematic literature review was conducted using 70 articles published between the years of 2006 and 2017, which were subjected to descriptive and thematic analysis. Findings The descriptive analysis established that the RLSC concept was dealt within the majority of the publications (61 per cent), followed by concepts related to quality in RLSC (24 per cent). Only 14 per cent of the articles were based on IM concepts related to RLSC. Quality and information are interrelated in the effective implementation of RLSC. The thematic analysis demonstrated that there is a need for using quality parameters in a regulatory environment in an information-based environment. Based on the findings, future research directions were developed. Research limitations/implications The study encourages researchers to identify novel directions by combining these three concepts. The study developed a future research agenda regarding use of building information modelling (BIM) for existing buildings under novel technologies; analysis of secondary market demand and supply; and assessment of cost and safety management with quality in a BIM-enabled environment. Practical implications The practical implications include the application of sustainable management principles based on stakeholders and the regulatory environment. Originality/value Integration of the three concepts is an emerging area. This integration developed a robust approach to achieve QM in RLSC operations under a sound information flow enabling the optimisation of DWM.

scholarly journals Key characteristics for designing a supply chain performance measurement system

2019 ◽  
Vol 68 (2) ◽  
pp. 296-318 ◽  
Author(s):  
Sara Elgazzar ◽  
Nicoleta Tipi ◽  
Glynis Jones
Keyword(s):  
Supply Chain ◽  
Performance Measurement ◽  
Conceptual Framework ◽  
Measurement System ◽  
Performance Measurement System ◽  
Supply Chain Performance ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Design Elements ◽  
Practical Implications ◽  
Insight Into

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to conduct a review of the literature that gives insight into design elements for constructing a supply chain performance measurement (SCPM) system. Design/methodology/approach A systematic review of published research on SCPM systems and frameworks over the last two decades was conducted with the purpose of categorising key functions of SCPM systems by providing an insight into the design, functionality, implementation and practical implications of SCPM systems. Findings The review revealed a set of functions governing the SCPM system that have not been fully explored in previous research: the process focus, prioritisation, integration and causality functions of a SCPM system. A relationship between two or more functions can be created to include more functionality based on the needs of the company to create a comprehensive performance measurement system. Research limitations/implications The paper concludes with a conceptual framework to guide future research in the area of designing a SCPM system and define the main aspects that should be considered when developing a SCPM system. Practical implications The paper brings a new dimension to the SCPM research by identifying the main functions of SCPM systems that could benefit practitioners to set up a SCPM system relevant to its intended function. The paper presents multiple potential stages of merging different functions in one SCPM system. Based on the company’s needs and context, the functionality of the SCPM system can be designed at four levels creating ten possible scenarios when designing a company’s SCPM system. Originality/value The paper integrated the literature and findings of 269 research papers of the last two decades, upon which a conceptual framework was developed as a guide for constructing an effective SCPM system.

Blockchain and supply chain management integration: a systematic review of the literature

2019 ◽  
Vol 25 (2) ◽  
pp. 241-254 ◽  
Author(s):  
Maciel M. Queiroz ◽  
Renato Telles ◽  
Silvia H. Bonilla
Keyword(s):  
Systematic Review ◽  
Supply Chain ◽  
Supply Chain Management ◽  
Business Models ◽  
Electric Power Industry ◽  
Future Research ◽  
Chain Management ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Blockchain Technology ◽  
Practical Implications

Purpose This paper aims to identify, analyse and organise the literature about blockchains in supply chain management (SCM) context (blockchain–SCM integration) and proposes an agenda for future research. This study aims to shed light on what the main current blockchain applications in SCM are, what the main disruptions and challenges are in SCM because of blockchain adoption and what the future of blockchains holds in SCM. Design/methodology/approach This study followed the systematic review approach to analyse and synthesise the extant literature on blockchain–SCM integration. The review analysed 27 papers between 2008 and 2018 in peer-reviewed journals. Findings Blockchain–SCM integration is still in its infancy. Scholars and practitioners are not fully aware of the potential of blockchain technology to disrupt traditional business models. However, the electric power industry seems to have a relatively mature understanding of blockchain–SCM integration, demonstrated by the use of smart contracts. Additionally, the disintermediation provided by blockchain applications has the potential to disrupt traditional industries (e.g. health care, transportation and retail). Research limitations/implications The limitations of this study are represented mainly by the scarcity of studies on blockchain–SCM integration in leading journals and databases. Practical implications This study highlights examples of blockchain–SCM integration, emphasising the need to rethink business models to incorporate blockchain technology. Originality/value This study is the first attempt to synthesise existing publications about the blockchain–SCM integration, shedding light on the disruption caused by, and the necessity of, the SCM reconfigurations.

A systematic review of halal supply chain research: to where shall we go?

2020 ◽  
Vol ahead-of-print (ahead-of-print) ◽  
Author(s):  
Nurul Indarti ◽  
Andy Susilo Lukito-Budi ◽  
Azmi Muhammad Islam
Keyword(s):  
Supply Chain ◽  
Success Factors ◽  
Citation Rate ◽  
Empirical Studies ◽  
Research Review ◽  
Future Research ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Publish Or Perish ◽  
Research Themes ◽  
Practical Implications

Purpose This study aims to explore existing study trends in the halal supply chain (HSC) field as an extension of supply chain studies. Upon examining multiple journal ranks and citation profiles, these trends cover research themes, methodologies, settings (country and data analysis level) and their interactions. Design/methodology/approach The study followed a systematic, mixed-method review to pinpoint the HSC research themes. The Publish or Perish software, with specific criteria, was used to retrieve and filter 87 HSC articles from 2009 to 2019 from the Google Scholar database. Then, an input–process–output framework was used to classify and discuss potential future research. Findings This study concludes that HSC research is still in early development. Five themes consisting of 24 different topics were found: the engagement process, quality control assurance, critical success factors, the production and distribution process and HSC operations support. Most of the HSC studies followed conceptual and qualitative interview methods, with special reference to Muslim-majority countries and organization-level analysis. Within one decade, the number of HSC publications grew significantly, though their presentation is mainly in unindexed journals and their citation rate is low. This study thus proposes three main future HSC research points: HSC consequences, processes and antecedents. Practical implications Possible practical implications can be expected from the authors’ proposed empirical studies as guidelines to formulate and promote HSC implementation. Originality/value No comprehensive HSC research review exists in the literature. This study intends to fill this void by charting cumulative knowledge and proposing a roadmap for future research endeavors.

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