Blockchain in supply chain management: a grounded theory-based analysis

Kybernetes ◽  
2021 ◽  
Vol ahead-of-print (ahead-of-print) ◽  
Author(s):  
Eladian Batista Rodrigues ◽  
Wagner Luiz Lourenzani ◽  
Eduardo Guilherme Satolo ◽  
Sergio Silva Braga Júnior ◽  
Rosley Anholon ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Supply Chain ◽  
Grounded Theory ◽  
Supply Chain Management ◽  
Theoretical Basis ◽  
Design Methodology ◽  
Chain Management ◽  
Content Type ◽  
The Subject

PurposeThis study aims to present consolidated information on blockchain, which seeks to better clarify the concept of blockchain and the associated implications and characteristics.Design/methodology/approachThe methodological procedure used was Grounded Theory, based on a Systematic Bibliographic Review on the adoption of blockchain in supply chain management. To add experts' opinion on the subject to the analyzed panorama, data from a survey were also considered in the analysis.FindingsThe Grounded Theory enabled the development of consolidated information on blockchain related knowledge, identifying benefits, fragilities and contributions of the concept for supply chain management.Originality/valueAn epistemological gap has been identified between the use of blockchain in supply chain management and a theoretical basis to support the application. The originality of this study lies in providing a proposition of this theoretical basis.

An analysis of barriers affecting implementation of sustainable supply chain management in electronics industry: a Grey-DEMATEL approach

2021 ◽  
Vol ahead-of-print (ahead-of-print) ◽  
Author(s):  
Rakesh R. Menon ◽  
V. Ravi
Keyword(s):  
Supply Chain ◽  
Supply Chain Management ◽  
Design Methodology ◽  
Electronics Industry ◽  
Future Research ◽  
Sustainable Supply Chain ◽  
Chain Management ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Sustainable Supply Chain Management ◽  
Indian Electronics Industry

Purpose World over organizations are focusing on sustainable goals, where along with economic success their role in protecting the planet and people are becoming important. Whilst transforming the supply chain into a sustainable one, there would be some barriers which might hinder this process. This paper aims to study these barriers in the context of the electronics industry so that organizations can better implement sustainable supply chain programs. Design/methodology/approach In this research, barriers affecting sustainability implementation in the electronics supply chain are shortlisted from literature review and experts’ opinion. Using the combined methodology of Grey DEMATEL, the causal factors, the effect factors and degree of prominence of barriers is found out. The overall relationship among barriers is established by a diagraph. Sensitivity analysis is performed to check the robustness of the results. Findings It is found that lack of regulation and guidance from authorities is the primary causal barrier affecting operations of sustainable supply chain management. There are five barriers which fall in the influenced group and among them, complexity in measuring and monitoring sustainability practices has the largest net effect value on the implementation of a sustainable supply chain. The barrier having the highest correlation with other barriers is the high cost for disposal of hazardous wastes. The implications of these findings on managers and academicians is explored in the study. Research limitations/implications In this research, the number of barriers shortlisted is limited to 11 in the context of the electronics supply chain. More factors could be added in future research based on the industry being studied. Originality/value The research analyses 11 barriers under categories of policy, technology, financial and human resources in the Indian electronics industry by evaluating the cause and effect group of barriers. These results can guide policymakers of the electronic sector and industry for mitigating barriers during the implementation of sustainable programs.

Contrasting supply chain traceability and supply chain visibility: are they interchangeable?

2021 ◽  
Vol ahead-of-print (ahead-of-print) ◽  
Author(s):  
Vivek Roy
Keyword(s):  
Supply Chain ◽  
Supply Chain Management ◽  
Information Sharing ◽  
Design Methodology ◽  
Relevant Literature ◽  
Future Research ◽  
Critical Element ◽  
Effective Management ◽  
Chain Management ◽  
Content Type

PurposeSupply chain traceability and supply chain visibility have become a critical element for the effective management of contemporary complex supply chains. At their core is information sharing, which has been acknowledged as a key prerequisite for logistics and supply chain performance, but whose notional underpinnings have not been delineated fully, leading to interchangeable deployment of these terms. Addressing the shortcoming, this paper aims to establish a contrast between the two notions.Design/methodology/approachDrawing from systematic review protocols, a multi-disciplinary review scope is constructed wherein the synthesis is strategized to primarily channel implications for the scholarship of logistics and supply chain management. The review is aimed at addressing two research objectives: (1) how the notions of traceability and visibility in supply chain management develop contrast in terms of their thematic emphasis and (2) to attain an integrative understanding of the notional convergence and divergence between supply chain traceability and visibility for raising strategic recommendations.FindingsThe review outcomes help contrast both the convergence and the divergence between traceability and visibility in the supply chain environment, and the differentiated but fundamental role that information sharing plays within these notions to outline why they are not interchangeable.Originality/valueThe originality of the findings lies in the conceptual synthesis of the relevant literature from both technological and non-technological perspectives to ultimately draw logistics and supply chain management implications. The review also points out key strategic considerations to demarcate the notional boundaries of traceability and visibility in future research.

Cultural dimensions and supply chain management

2021 ◽  
Vol ahead-of-print (ahead-of-print) ◽  
Keyword(s):  
Supply Chain ◽  
Supply Chain Management ◽  
Case Studies ◽  
Design Methodology ◽  
Reading Time ◽  
Cultural Dimensions ◽  
Chain Management ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Pertinent Information ◽  
Practical Implications

Purpose This paper aims to review the latest management developments across the globe and pinpoint practical implications from cutting-edge research and case studies. Design/methodology/approach This briefing is prepared by an independent writer who adds their own impartial comments and places the articles in context. Findings The increasing relevance of culture to supply chain management is indicated by the number and scope of studies that currently exist. However, significant shortcomings prevail that might be addressed by the development of an appropriate framework able to measure interaction between individual, organizational and network cultural levels. Originality/value The briefing saves busy executives and researchers hours of reading time by selecting only the very best, most pertinent information and presenting it in a condensed and easy-to-digest format.

Competence in supply chain management: a systematic review

2017 ◽  
Vol 22 (2) ◽  
pp. 200-218 ◽  
Author(s):  
Pernilla Derwik ◽  
Daniel Hellström
Keyword(s):  
Supply Chain ◽  
Supply Chain Management ◽  
Literature Review ◽  
Systematic Literature Review ◽  
Scientific Journal ◽  
Organizational Level ◽  
Business Success ◽  
Chain Management ◽  
Content Type ◽  
The Subject

Purpose This paper aims to present an integrated view of the literature published on all aspects and facets of competence in supply chain management (SCM) and furthermore provides a framework for classifying and analyzing literature to facilitate further study, practice and research. Design/methodology/approach A systematic literature review identified 98 peer-reviewed scientific journal publications on the subject of competence in SCM. Findings This review identifies and classifies the key content of the subject based on whose competence (level of analysis) and the type of competence (competence element), resulting in a framework that brings together aspects at the individual and organizational level, and of the functional, relational, managerial and behavioral elements of competence from the SCM literature. It furthermore displays the timeliness and wide-ranging character of the subject, as presented by the evolutionary timeline and the main research streams. Research limitations/implications Although competence in SCM is a key to business success, the subject is ambiguous and an explicit need exists for more research. This paper provides a foundation for future examination of and theory building in this subject. It also alerts researchers to complementary studies outside of their own “customary” domains. Practical implications This paper can support managers in their pursuit to secure competence in SCM and thereby improve outcomes on both individual and organizational level. It can furthermore assist in the development of relevant programs and training sessions. Originality/value To the best of authors’ knowledge, this work represents the first systematic literature review on the subject of competence in SCM. In addition, it proposes a taxonomy for mapping and evaluating research on this subject.

Logistics principles vs. legal principles: frictions and challenges

2014 ◽  
Vol 44 (10) ◽  
pp. 744-767 ◽  
Author(s):  
Andreas Norrman ◽  
Oskar Henkow
Keyword(s):  
Supply Chain ◽  
Comparative Analysis ◽  
Supply Chain Management ◽  
Design Methodology ◽  
Functional Approach ◽  
The Other ◽  
Chain Management ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Legal Principles ◽  
Practical Implications

Purpose – Logisticians propose changes to improve supply chains, and legal practitioners do likewise, but from a different perspective. Proposals from one domain increasingly have an impact on the other due to e.g. globalization – but cross-disciplinary knowledge often seems limited. The purpose of this paper is to facilitate interaction between the domains by increasing the level of joint understanding of the principles used in each domain, and to look at the potential frictions and challenges. Design/methodology/approach – Management principles for efficient logistics and supply chain management as well as key principles governing the legal systems are summarized on both a paradigmatic and an action level. Illustrations from practice are presented. These have been obtained by a cross-functional team which has interviewed both logisticians and lawyers. Findings are based on cross-functional comparative analysis of principles and illustrations. Findings – Frictions between operational principles were found to exist in each domain, with some principles harder to reconcile than others. There are also challenges between the two paradigms of logistics and law that influence the operational principles. Research limitations/implications – One implication is that the knowledge gap, challenges and frictions between the professions and domains, both in practice and academia, would benefit from more research. Practical implications – Although it may seem trivial, logisticians and lawyers need to cooperate better. The research shows on a fundamental level, with practical examples, the challenges and frictions that occur. Originality/value – The cross-functional approach with law, and the discussion and comparison of principles.

Potential of blockchain technology in supply chain management: a literature review

2019 ◽  
Vol 49 (9) ◽  
pp. 881-900 ◽  
Author(s):  
Amulya Gurtu ◽  
Jestin Johny
Keyword(s):  
Supply Chain ◽  
Supply Chain Management ◽  
Design Methodology ◽  
Chain Management ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Blockchain Technology ◽  
The World ◽  
Innovation And Technology ◽  
Practical Implications

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to review the existing literature on blockchain technology, present some trends and consider its potential value in supply chain management (SCM). Design/methodology/approach Papers that contained the word “blockchain” in their titles, keywords or abstracts were selected for conducting trend analyses. Findings The blockchain technology is rapidly making inroads in many industries and there is tremendous potential to eliminate intermediaries and to make SCM more efficient. Research limitations/implications This analysis is limited to 299 papers from the EBSCO database through December 2018. Practical implications This paper highlights the imperative role of blockchain technology that has created a discourse in the world of innovation and technology. This work will help academics to further the understanding of blockchain technology. Social implications Blockchain technology will provide transparency to consumers. Originality/value This paper presents the first review of blockchain technology and delves into its value in SCM. This work will help researchers in identifying the areas where blockchain is the most desirable and can be implemented.

Startups in the supply chain ecosystem: an organizing framework and research opportunities

2021 ◽  
Vol ahead-of-print (ahead-of-print) ◽  
Author(s):  
Stephan M. Wagner
Keyword(s):  
Supply Chain ◽  
Supply Chain Management ◽  
Design Methodology ◽  
Success Factors ◽  
Business Models ◽  
Service Providers ◽  
Future Research ◽  
Chain Management ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Supply Chain Logistics

PurposeStartups are associated with innovation, emerging technologies, digitalization and disruptive business models. This article aims to provide a better understanding of startups in logistics and supply chain management, organizes the contemporary discussion around startups in the supply chain ecosystem and outlines opportunities for future research.Design/methodology/approachThis study draws on the prior supply chain, logistics and entrepreneurship literature and discusses key themes along the six identified startup issues. Furthermore, it proposes several perspectives and theories for grounding future research.FindingsThis study discusses the roles and success factors of startups in the supply chain ecosystem. It lays out how startups need to organize their own supply chains, how supply chain management (SCM) startups incubate and accelerate their ventures, the financing of SCM startups, as well as their positions as service providers, suppliers and customers.Originality/valueThis research brings together the sparse and dispersed literature on startups in the supply chain ecosystem, motivating scholars to increase the involvement of startups as important stakeholders in SCM research.

The thematic landscape of literature on supply chain management in India: a systematic literature review

2020 ◽  
Vol ahead-of-print (ahead-of-print) ◽  
Author(s):  
Srichandan Sahu ◽  
K.V.S.S. Narayana Rao
Keyword(s):  
Supply Chain ◽  
Supply Chain Management ◽  
Literature Review ◽  
Systematic Literature Review ◽  
Adoption Process ◽  
Chain Management ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Subject Areas ◽  
The Subject ◽  
Level 1

PurposeTo assess the state of supply chain management (SCM) research in India and to understand the research trends and methodologies used. The present study also aims to create a taxonomy of the subject areas researched in India.Design/methodology/approachThe present study employed the systematic literature review methodology. Literature from 395 peer journal papers in 67 leading journals over a 20-year period (2000–2020 Quarter-1) was comprehensively reviewed and assessed.FindingsSCM research in India started around the year 2000. The quantum of research was low (single digit) until 2010. There has been steady growth over the last decade, and over 50% of the total papers up until now has been published in the last four years. The present study created a three-tiered taxonomy of the subject areas and classified the papers as per it. The first tier (level-1) has seven categories (SCM strategy, network design, SCM processes and integration, IT systems, skills, performance measurement and others). A perusal of the newly created taxonomy revealed that, except for a few areas under level-1 categories (such as SCM processes and SCM strategy), the other level-1 categories have not seen much research. Similarly, there is little or no research in a large number of level-2 categories (such as outsourcing strategy, channel strategy, demand management, demand fulfillment, customer relationship management, integrated supply chain planning, new product development, returns, supply chain orientation, performance monitoring, performance improvement, SCM adoption process, SCM implementation issues and quantified benefits of SCM). Methodologically, the rigor of SCM research in India needs improvement.Originality/valueA comprehensive taxonomy of SCM subject areas researched in India at three cascading levels was created for the first time in the present study. The taxonomy will help provide researchers with a clear understanding of the structure of the subject areas and help in identifying areas where research has been carried out and the subject areas where gaps exist for future research to proceed. The present study also provides an overview of the methodological rigor of SCM research in India and points out some of the limitations that researchers should avoid in future studies.

Practical relevance of theory-driven supply chain management research

2019 ◽  
Vol 30 (1) ◽  
pp. 76-95 ◽  
Author(s):  
Xiaohong Liu ◽  
Alan C. McKinnon
Keyword(s):  
Supply Chain ◽  
Supply Chain Management ◽  
Design Methodology ◽  
Academic Research ◽  
Practical Relevance ◽  
Chain Management ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Critical Components ◽  
Practical Implications ◽  
Leading Journals

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to examine the extent to which theory-driven supply chain management (SCM) research is of practical relevance. It does this on the basis of empirical research in China.Design/methodology/approachA two-pronged approach was adopted. First, 57 theory-driven SCM studies based in China published in ten leading journals between 2006 and 2015 were surveyed. Second, a questionnaire survey of Chinese managers identified their practical concerns and assessed their alignment with the content of the academic papers.FindingsSome academic research on SCM does probe industry-relevant problems. From an academic perspective, this confirms that theory-driven SCM research can be of practical value. Overall, however, the survey found that much of the SCM research works do not translate into actionable knowledge for practitioners. Academic research in this field could pursue a more pragmatic path and enhance its practical utility. Two critical components of this path, “practical observation” and “practical verification,” are highlighted.Research limitations/implicationsAs the literature review was confined to ten leading journals, relevant papers in other journals were possibly excluded. The research was confined to China and so the results are not necessarily generalizable to other countries.Practical implicationsChinese academics and practitioners could collaborate in defining research agendas and directions. This would help researchers direct their theory building to issues of relevance to business.Originality/valueTo the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the first study to investigate the relevance of theory-driven SCM research from academic and practitioner perspectives in China. It shows how this research might have greater impact on business practice.

Quantifying the degree of leanness and agility at any point within a supply chain

2016 ◽  
Vol 118 (1) ◽  
pp. 60-69 ◽  
Author(s):  
C. N. Bezuidenhout
Keyword(s):  
Supply Chain ◽  
Supply Chain Management ◽  
Stochastic Model ◽  
Supply Chains ◽  
Design Methodology ◽  
Simple Approach ◽  
Chain Management ◽  
Content Type

Purpose – Not many researchers have attempted to numerically quantify a supply chain’s degree of leanness or agility. Although focusing predominantly on food, the purpose of this paper is to propose a simple and universal methodology to quantify the degrees of leanness and agility at any point within any supply chain. Design/methodology/approach – Daily processing capacities of stochastic model runs and real supply chain data were projected onto a standardized Euclidean surface. Indexes that calculate, amongst others, the agility, leanness, baseline production and ceiling conditions were derived. Findings – The indexes were often well correlated across the various supply chains. Leanness correlates negatively with agility, as can be expected, however, these attributes do not stand opposed to each other. Most supply chains seem to exhibit both lean and agile attributes simultaneously. Sugar, various types of tomatoes, avocado and onion supply chains are discussed and compared. Although a large amount of data were analysed, there exists an opportunity to widen this study significantly. Originality/value – This paper presents a unique and simple approach to quantify the degree of supply chain leanness and agility. Although these terms are often used, only a few authors have made attempts to quantify these attributes and in most cases the approaches are relatively cumbersome. The relatively simple indexes create an opportunity for supply chain management to measure, evaluate and communicate their strategies along the supply chain and between different chains.

Sign in / Sign up

Export Citation Format

Share Document