Supply chain collaboration and firm’s performance: The critical role of information sharing and trust

Unveiling the role of supply chain parameters approved by blockchain technology towards firm performance through trust: The moderating role of government support

This research study aims to reveal the role of supply chain parameters approved by blockchain technology toward firm performance through trust. This study has also examined the moderating role of government support between trust and firm performance. The underlying theories reinforce the usefulness and flexibility of a supply chain in regulating daily fluctuations and uncertainties in supply and demand. Blockchain technology adoption with supply chain tactics provides a more suitable environment for better firm performance. Governments address legal and security concerns related to blockchain technology and provide clear guidelines and standards for its use in supply chains, which build trust among firms and stakeholders. A conceptual model has been developed with the assistance of past empirical research studies and associated theories. This research study has examined the following relationships from a sample of 465 employees from textile industrial firms listed on the Pakistan Stock Exchange. The current research study assesses these parameters using the partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) method. The analysis showed that supply chain parameters (alignment, agility, adaptability) approved by blockchain technology positively correlate with firm performance. Trust positively mediated the relationship between supply chain parameters approved by blockchain technology and firm performance. Furthermore, government support positively moderated the relationship between trust and firm performance. The study would provide directions for further research. These findings will give the global supply chain industry valuable insights into blockchain technology for firm performance. In theory, this research study would contribute to the scientific literature by answering how trust and government support affect the overall firm performance.

Horizontal logistics collaboration success factors: expectations versus reality

Purpose

This study aims to compare the expectations of non-collaborating professionals and the actual opinions of collaborating professionals regarding success factors of horizontal logistics collaboration (HLC) and investigates the reasons behind the observed differences.

Design/methodology/approach

This study employs a mixed-method approach. First, a survey is conducted to collect data from two samples representing collaborating and non-collaborating industry professionals. Second, confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) is used to compare the measurement models from the two samples and identify their similarities and differences. Third, a Delphi study is conducted to identify factors limiting collaborative behavior.

Findings

The results show that collaborating professionals exhibit lower levels of joint relationship efforts and trust than expected. This is primarily due to inadequate information sharing, poor collaboration formalization and the absence of a clear costs and benefits allocation mechanism.

Practical implications

The findings indicate that, in HLC, managers should give high importance to facilitating timely and complete information exchange, putting in place an acceptable costs/benefits allocation mechanism, formalizing the collaboration and prioritizing integrity over competency when selecting partners.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the first study that shows the existence of differences between industry professionals' pre-collaboration expectations and the actual experiences in HLC. This is also the first study that points to the exact HLC enablers that fail in practice and the barriers responsible for it.

Supply Chain Resilience and Operational Performance: The Role of Digital Technologies in Jordanian Manufacturing Firms

This study aims to analyze the relationship between supply chain resilience (SCR) practices and operational performance and the moderating role of digital technologies in Jordanian manufacturing firms. A descriptive-analytical approach was adopted using a questionnaire based on the study model and previous related literature. Four hundred supply chain (SC)-related managers within seventy-one firms were reached to collect the needed data; three hundred and seventy-two complete questionnaires were analyzed. The results revealed that the level of SCR practices and operational performance was high; SCR (with its sub-dimensions: SC agility (SCA), SC flexibility (SCF), and SC collaboration (SCC)) had a significant positive relationship with operational performance; and the appropriate use of digital technologies had a significant moderating impact on the aggregate level of the SCR–operational performance relationship. Finally, research limitations, practical implications, and future research conclude this study.

Revisiting the bullwhip effect: how can AI smoothen the bullwhip phenomenon?

Purpose

Although scholars argue that artificial intelligence (AI) represents a tool to potentially smoothen the bullwhip effect in the supply chain, only little research has examined this phenomenon. In this article, the authors conceptualize a framework that allows for a more structured management approach to examine the bullwhip effect using AI. In addition, the authors conduct a systematic literature review of this current status of how management can use AI to reduce the bullwhip effect and locate opportunities for future research.

Design/methodology/approach

Guided by the systematic literature review approach from Durach et al. (2017), the authors review and analyze key attributes and characteristics of both AI and the bullwhip effect from a management perspective.

Findings

The authors' findings reveal that literature examining how management can use AI to smoothen the bullwhip effect is a rather under-researched area that provides an abundance of research avenues. Based on identified AI capabilities, the authors propose three key management pillars that form the basis of the authors' Bullwhip-Smoothing-Framework (BSF): (1) digital skills, (2) leadership and (3) collaboration. The authors also critically assess current research efforts and offer suggestions for future research.

Originality/value

By providing a structured management approach to examine the link between AI and the bullwhip phenomena, this study offers scholars and managers a foundation for the advancement of theorizing how to smoothen the bullwhip effect along the supply chain.

Understanding green supply chain information integration on supply chain process ambidexterity: The mediator of dynamic ability and the moderator of leaders' networking ability

Based on dynamic capability theory, this paper aims to explore the influence of green supply chain information integration (IT system integration and information sharing) on supply chain process ambidexterity (efficiency and flexibility) and expounds on the mediation mechanisms (supply chain dynamic capability) and the boundary condition (networking ability) between the two. Through the sample data test research model of 351 managers of manufacturing enterprises, it is found that information technology (IT) system integration can effectively promote the information sharing level of green supply chain enterprises. Supply chain dynamic capability partially mediates the influence of IT system integration and information sharing on supply chain process ambidexterity. Moreover, networking ability positively moderates the relationship between absorptive capacity, innovation capacity, and supply chain process ambidexterity, but does not play a significant role in the relationship between adaptive capacity and supply chain process ambidexterity.

A heuristic-based hybrid algorithm to configure a sustainable supply chain network for medical devices considering information-sharing systems

In today's hyper-competitive marketplace, the crucial role of the sustainability concept has been highlighted more. Hence, managers' attention has been attracted to the concept of sustainable supply chains. On the other hand, after the COVID-19 outbreak, the importance of medical devices and their demand has drastically enhanced, which has led to shifting the attention of researchers toward this industry. In this regard, based on the importance of the mentioned points, the current study configures a sustainable supply chain network for the medical devices industry. In this way, given the crucial role of the oxygen concentrator during the COVID-19 outbreak, the present study investigates the supply chain of the mentioned goods as a case study. Also, this research develops an efficient hybrid solution method based on goal programming, a heuristic algorithm, and the simulated annealing algorithm to solve the suggested model. Eventually, sensitivity analysis is conducted to examine the influence of the crucial parameters of the model on the outputs, and managerial insights are provided. According to the achieved results, the suggested model and the developed hybrid method demonstrate a good performance which shows their efficiency.

Enhancing supply chain information sharing with third party logistics service providers

Purpose

This study evaluated the enhancement of information sharing practices with third party logistics service providers (3PLs) in a supply chain solutions company that provides transport and warehousing software in Johannesburg, South Africa.

Design/methodology/approach

A mixed methods case study was conducted to investigate the problem. Both strands of quantitative and qualitative data were given equal priority. Three rounds of primary data were sequentially collected, analysed and triangulated. An online questionnaire was distributed to a sampling frame of seventeen companies which were randomly selected from the population. Three company executives were purposively sampled to participate in a focus group interview. Data from an open-ended questionnaire were used to explain and validate the findings from clients and executives who participated in the two preceding rounds of data collection.

Findings

It was found that information sharing improves the collaboration of channel members, increases competitive advantage and ultimately leads to better customer service. The improvement of relationships and continuous technological upgrades are recommended for improving visibility of information and effectiveness in the management of supply chains.

Research limitations/implications

This study is limited by the characteristics of the case study methodology. Case study research suffers from restricted generalisability, problems with cross-checking and the risk of bias and subjectivity. This implies that the results of this case study may not be generalised to the overall population. The selection of a mixed methods design was intended to curb the limitations that are inherent to this study.

Practical implications

This study was limited to a few respondents and participants, which raises concerns about both the statistical power and the generalisability of the results. However, the results provide useful insights into some of the information sharing practices in the industry.

Originality/value

The value of the study contributes to the supply chain's dependence on 3PLs for value creation and the reliance on technology to share information amongst channel members. This study highlights a need for organisations to build collaborative relationships with 3PLs and continuously update technological infrastructure in order to meet supply chain network goals.

A multi-tier approach to supply chain collaboration: implications of shopper solutions

Purpose

The authors explored the impact of a popular supply chain collaboration initiative – the shopper solution – on both retailers and manufacturers, as well as on the shopper.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors conducted a quasi-experimental field study, an experimental online study and an experimental behavioral lab study.

Findings

Overall, results revealed that shopper solutions increase the quantity and breadth of displayed products sold, along with sales totals. Shoppers also expressed higher willingness-to-pay (WTP) for products displayed in solutions. Shoppers positively (negatively) attributed the presence (absence) of solutions more strongly to retailers than to manufacturers due to perceived differences in manufacturers' concern for shoppers. Specifically, shoppers expressed higher (lower) word-of-mouth (WOM) and loyalty intentions toward retailers than manufacturers when solutions were (not) provided.

Originality/value

The authors provide a more holistic view of supply chain collaboration by showing how different chain members (retailers vs manufacturers) can experience disparate benefits from collaboration. The authors explain this within the context of shopper solutions by demonstrating that differences in perceived concern for shoppers underlies these effects. Thus, findings suggest that shopper marketing initiatives, such as solutions, are not always “win-win-win” outcomes for retailers, manufacturers and shoppers as intended. Overall, this is the first research to assess the implications of shopper solutions for retailers, manufacturers and shoppers, alike.

Role of fake news and misinformation in supply chain disruption: impact of technology competency as moderator

Studies show that COVID-19 has increased the effects of misinformation and fake news that proliferated during the continued crisis and related turbulent environment. Fake news and misinformation can come from various sources such as social media, print media, as well as from electronic media such as instant messaging services and other apps. There is a growing interest among researchers and practitioners on how fake news and misinformation impacts on supply chain disruption. But the limited research in this area leaves a gap. With this background, the purpose of this study is to determine the role of fake news and misinformation in supply chain disruption and the consequences to a firm's operational performance. This study also investigates the moderating role of technology competency in supply chain disruption and operational performance of the firm. With the help of theories and literature, a theoretical model has been developed. Later, the conceptual model has been validated using partial least squares structural equation modeling. The study finds that there is a significant impact of misinformation and fake news on supply chain disruption, which in turn negatively impacts firms' operational performance. The study also highlights that firms' technology competency can improve the supply chain situation that has been disrupted by misinformation and fake news.

Lean manufacturing and firms’ financial performance: the role of strategic supplier partnership and information sharing

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine the mediating role of strategic supplier partnership and moderating role of information sharing (IS), in the relationship between lean manufacturing and firms’ financial performance (FP).

Design/methodology/approach

Utilizing the contingency approach, this study develops a research model to validate the proposition that a proper integration of supply chain (SC) practices enhances the financial performance of the firm. The study uses data from one hundred and fifty-seven manufacturing firms. The results are generated on structural equation modeling (SEM) using AMOS software.

Findings

The study finds that strategic supplier partnership partially mediates the relationship between lean manufacturing and FP, whereas, empirically, it could not demonstrate that IS significantly moderates the relationship between lean manufacturing and FP.

Practical implications

The paper theoretically develops logic for and empirically shows that strategic supplier partnership is an appropriate practice for mediating the impact of lean manufacturing on FP.

Originality/value

This strategic supply chain integration contributes to theory and demonstrates that SC practices’ correct synchronization and orchestration may realize superior FP. In addition, this research provides a sustainable strategic SC model that creates value and provides a competitive advantage for firms in the long term.

The relationship between upstream vertical integration and environmental sustainability in the luxury fashion industry

Luxury fashion firms increasingly incorporate the principles of environmental sustainability into their supply chain strategies in response to a growing demand for sustainable products. Starting from this premise, the present study explores the relationship between upstream vertical integration and environmental sustainability in the luxury fashion industry. Based on data from a survey and a set of interviews, this paper examines the link between firm size and the importance of environmental sustainability as a driver of upstream integration. In addition, it investigates the connection between the degree of upstream integration and manufacturers’ environmental sustainability performance. According to the research results, large corporations attach greater importance than SMEs to environmental sustainability when considering an upstream integration process. Also, higher levels of vertical integration are positively associated with better sustainability performances.

Big data driven innovation for sustaining SME supply chain operation in post COVID-19 scenario: Moderating role of SME technology leadership

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, there is an unprecedented crisis for businesses. The small and medium enterprises (SMEs) have been impacted even more, due to their limited resources. Extant literature has prescribed many treatments on how SMEs could survive in post COVID-19 situation, but studies did not analyse how big data driven innovation could improve supply chain management (SCM) process in the post COVID-19 pandemic under the moderating influence of SME technology leadership support. Thus, there is a research gap in this important domain. The aim of this study is to examine the impact of big data driven innovation and technology capability of the SME on its supply chain system. The study also investigates the moderating role of SME technology leadership support on SME performance in the post COVID-19 scenario. With the help of literature and resource-based view (RBV) and dynamic capability view (DCV) theory, a theoretical model has been developed conceptually. Later the model is validated using structural equation modelling (SEM) technique with 327 usable respondents from SMEs from India. The study found that both big data driven innovation and the techno-functional capability of SME impacts supply chain capability which in turn impacts the SME performance in the post COVID-19 scenario. The study also finds that there will be a moderating impact of SME technology leadership support on SME performance.

Digitalization of the supply chain: transformation factors

Purpose

There is an increasing interest in the supply chain’s digitalization, yet the topic is still in the preliminary stages of academic research. The academic literature has no consensus and is still limited to research assessing the supply chain’s digitalization of organizations. This study aims to explore the supply chain digitalization drivers to understand the emerging phenomena. More specifically, the authors devised from the literature the most common factors in assessing the readiness in scaling supply chain digitalization.

Design/methodology/approach

This study followed a five-phased systematic literature review (SLR) methodology in this research: designing, analyzing, conducting, writing and assessing the quality of the review. The SLR is beneficial for justifying future research regardless of the complex process that requires dealing with high-level databases, information filtering and relevancies of the content. Through analysis of 347 titles and abstracts and 40 full papers, the authors showed and discussed the supply chain digitalization: transformation factors.

Findings

The results generated three main themes: technology, people and processes. The study also generated ten subthemes/primary drivers for assessing the readiness for supply chain digitalization in organizations: IT infrastructure, cybersecurity systems, digitalization reskilling and upskilling, digitalization culture, top management support, digitalization and innovation strategy, integrated supply chain, digital innovation management, big data management and data analytics and government regulations. The importance of each factor was discussed, and future research agenda was presented.

Research limitations/implications

While the key drivers of the supply chain digitalization were identified, there is still a need to study the statistical correlation to confirm the interrelationships among factors. This study is also limited by the articles available in the databases and content extraction.

Practical implications

This study supports decision-makers in understanding the critical drivers in digitalizing the supply chain. Once these factors are studied and comprehended, managers and decision-makers could better anticipate and allocate the proper resources to embark on the digitalization journey and make informed decisions.

Originality/value

The digitalization of the supply chain is more critical nowadays due to the global disruptions caused by the Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic and the surge of organizations moving toward the digital economy. There is a gap between the digital transformation pilot studies and implementation. The themes and factors unearthed in this study will serve as a foundation and guidelines for further theoretical research and practical implications.

Supply chain management practices, retail outlets attributes and organisational performance: a case of organised food retailers in India

Purpose

The aim of this study is to examine the impact of supply chain management (SCM) practices and retail outlet attributes on the performance of organised food retailers in India during COVID-19 pandemic.

Design/methodology/approach

Authors conducted empirical research with SCM practices and retail outlet attributes to evaluate the retailers’ performance. The authors present the results from 321 valid responses from the Indian food retailers. The study used structured equation modeling to present the analysis and the results.

Findings

The findings of this study reveal that most of the SCM practices (i.e. information technology, level of information sharing, customer relationship, supplier relationship and goal congruence) have a positive impact on performance except the quality of information sharing. The results show that in the time of the pandemic, the retail outlet attributes (image, service quality and convenience) have no significant relationship with the food retailer’s performance while SCM practices are necessary to achieve better performance of the food retailers.

Research limitations/implications

A proactive approach is needed from retailers at the time of pandemic situations to manage the supply chains. The retailers must be extra careful in screening the suppliers for the short and long run. The reason being that in the situation of pandemic, customers might be more demanding and hence, food retailers need to pay special attention to gain growth. It is also required that the policymakers should give importance to the implementation of these SCM practices to be positioned differently.

Originality/value

The research can be valued in terms of its original contribution towards companies in overcoming the disruption caused by COVID-19 to maintain a balance between demand and supply and proposes a completely new theoretical framework. The proposed theoretical model would add value to the existing literature to help the retailers in process of their performance improvement. The study has provided insights for retail organisations, suppliers and government departments to manage their SCs more effectively and efficiently during the pandemic.

Analysing the interactions of sustainability practices and financial performance on business-to-business buying behaviour in Indian manufacturing industry: a graph-theoretic approach

Purpose

This study aims to develop a framework for the action hierarchy of sustainability practices and financial performance and their optimal combination for supplier evaluation and selection in business-to-business (B2B) for the Indian manufacturing industry.

Design/methodology/approach

Through the extensive literature review followed by comprehensive interviews conducted using the Delphi methodology with professionals, this study attempts to represent the interactions of the sustainability practices and financial performance factors on B2B buying behaviour using a graph-theoretic approach.

Findings

The contribution of environmental, social, economic and financial performance to B2B buying behaviour is obtained quantitatively in the context of the Indian manufacturing industry.

Research limitations/implications

This study considers inputs from the Indian manufacturing industry, which may vary significantly based on the type of industry and geographical locations.

Practical implications

This study provides a direction to prioritize their supplier evaluation and selection criteria for sustainability practices and financial performance with quantifiable rationale.

Originality/value

The study seeks to encourage manufacturing industries to plan their actions by quantifying the intangibles through a systematic approach.

Managing the Tension between Trust and Confidentiality in Mobile Supply Chains

This research investigates the tension between trust and confidentiality in Mobile Supply Chains (MSCs), where a production asset that is owned by one of the partners is outsourced to another partner of the supply chain for the production of goods, chemicals, or pharmaceuticals. The novelty of the MSC concept is to be found in its innovative and sustainable approach to production and operation processes in supply chains. Implementation of the MSC model could, however, raise trust and confidentiality concerns. The interplay of trust and confidentiality, or preservation of information privacy, between partners plays a central role in the supply chains, particularly because they are genuinely dependent on each other. Qualitative data analysis was used, in which semi-structured interviews with the experts from the chemical and pharmaceutical industries in Germany were conducted to investigate the tension between trust and confidentiality, and important factors affecting it. The results of the study present four different integration scenarios, namely, the low-quality, conservative, grey-box, and innovation scenarios, which consider different levels of trust, confidentiality and information sharing. Subsequently, the tension between trust and confidentiality is analyzed within these scenarios, and three effective strategies which encourage partners to balance the tension between trust and confidentiality are proposed. The study indicates that the balance between trust and confidentiality can be maintained in some scenarios when critical factors such as transparency, trust negotiation, and a reward-sharing system are present.

Supply chain performance measurement through collaborative effectiveness: an Asia–Pacific perspective

Purpose

The main purpose of this research is to investigate the supply chain performance through collaborative effectiveness, from the organisations of Asia–Pacific region perspective, compared with that of global organisations based on collaborative supply chain practices.

Design/methodology/approach

The survey research methodology was adopted, involving the collection of survey data from 223 participants across 10 different industries and 6 geographic regions. Data included 103 organisations in the Asia–Pacific region including Australia, India, China, Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia and Thailand.

Findings

From a collaborative effectiveness perspective, the supply chain performance of Asia–Pacific organisations is different when compared with that of global organisations. It was also found that global organisations are driven by sales performance, while Asia–Pacific organisations are focussing mainly on the cost in terms of the number of employees, and therefore productivity. The metal industry stands out to be the best performing industry from a collaborative effectiveness perspective in the Asia–Pacific region and globally.

Practical implications

The research findings can be used as a guide by industry practitioners to develop benchmarks for collaborative supply chain practices by industry and region of operations. This research has been limited to a few industries such as manufacturing, logistics, service and retail industries.

Originality/value

This research generates new knowledge on the relationship between the collaborative effectiveness and supply chain performance, from the perspectives of both Asia–Pacific and global organisations, based on a collaborative effectiveness framework. The study proposes an innovative approach of assessing supply chain performance through collaborative effectiveness from the perspectives of geographical boundaries and industry types.

Effect of Supply Chain Coordination on Performance

Research on supply chain management (SCM) focuses on “what” factors of a supply chain enable firms to achieve high performance. It examines the effect of two strategically important pillars: supply chain relationships or capabilities. However their isolated investigation leads to a limited understanding of “how” they can be combined to increase firm performance. In this study we argue that beyond their direct effects the relational and the capability-based determinants of a supply chain have a network of indirect relationships that concurrently and differentially affect firm performance. Building on the relational and resource-based views we develop a serial-mediation model examining the mediating effects of trust in supply chain and collaborative advantage (i.e. relational determinants), and supply chain agility and coordinated supply chain (i.e. capability-based determinants) of SCM. Through the use of hierarchical linear regression analysis we show that trust, agility and collaboration act as serial mediators that carry the indirect effect of coordination to firm performance.

The mediating effect of supply chain flexibility on the relationship between supply chain integration and supply chain performance

Purpose

Supply chain integration (SCI) and flexibility (SCF) are recognised as crucial business practices and capability in the global competitive market. However, limited research has paid attention to study the relationship between SCI, SCF and their impact on supply chain performance (SCP). Therefore, the purpose of this paper is to establish a relationship between integration, flexibility and performance.

Design/methodology/approach

The structural equation modelling technique was used to analyse the 187 data collected from Indian organisations through the survey methodology.

Findings

Findings indicate that external integration contributes significantly to realise SCF and SCP. Sourcing and logistics flexibility also help to improve the SCP. The mediation analysis showed that the association of customer and supplier integration with SCP is partially and fully mediated by logistics flexibility, respectively. This study suggests that integration influences the SCP when the firm has a strong association with downstream partners and enough capability for logistics flexibility.

Research limitations/implications

The study has collected cross-sectional data to analyse the relationship between SCI, SCF and SCP. However, as integration requires an effort of the years, longitudinal data and industry-specific studies may provide comprehensive views to validate the results of this study.

Originality/value

Building on relational view theory and dynamic capability theory, the study has proposed the SCP assessment framework based on the relationship between SCI and SCF.

Supply chain performance in the power distribution sector

Purpose

In today’s highly competitive milieu, many organizations are entering into the international market to gain greater share and take advantage of higher production. However, the introduction of advanced technology has brought a significant amount of competition within the supply chain especially within the bounds of the power distribution sector. This study aims to examine how information and knowledge sharing influence supply chain performance in the power distribution sector.

Design/methodology/approach

The quantitative method and cross-sectional survey design were used in the study. A sample of 200 officers specifically selected from power distribution companies was used for the study. Data was analysed using descriptive, correlation, regression and structural equation models.

Findings

The relationship between information sharing, knowledge sharing and performance of the supply chain are positively mediated by supply chain collaboration. The findings indicate that technological innovation positively moderates the relationship between information sharing, knowledge sharing and supply chain performance.

Practical implications

Information sharing, knowledge sharing and technological innovation are critical indicators driving the supply chain operation of power distribution organizations.

Originality/value

This study presents a contemporary approach towards understanding knowledge and information sharing as antecedents of supply chain performance.

Adoption of product lifecycle management in new product development: a case study of automotive organisation

Purpose

The Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) system has found varieties of deployments in various domains of product-based industries. Current study aims to provide a framework for the adoption of PLM systems in manufacturing organizations to meet the actual requirements of industries.

Design/methodology/approach

First, a systematic review of extant literature was performed, and further, the case study approach is opted to study the process of New Product Development (NPD) in a manufacturing organization. Triangulation methodology was adopted wherein the interview results, actual observations, and authorized documentations were used to validate the result and provide conclusions.

Findings

A conceptual framework and implementation architecture for PLM is derived. The complete ecosystem for digital footprint is mapped for New Product Development (NPD) activities.

Practical implications

The study could be helpful for Techno-Functional Managers. For individuals with only functional/technical knowledge, additional training might be required to adopt the framework in actual practices.

Originality/value

The paper contributes to the existing literature by providing a framework and demonstrating the feasibility of implementation through the case study.

Supply chain network and financing performance of small and medium enterprises in China: a survey and quasi-replication using fuzzy-set qualitative comparative analysis

Purpose

This paper examines how weak ties and strong ties in the supply chain network influence the financing performance of small and medium enterprises (SMEs) through the mediation of information sharing and innovation capability.

Design/methodology/approach

Questionnaires were administered to 208 financial managers responsible for supply chain finance in SMEs in China. Data analysis techniques used included multiple regression analysis and fuzzy-set qualitative comparative analysis.

Findings

The authors found that weak ties had a more substantial impact on the financing performance of SMEs than strong ties did. Information sharing and innovation capability played a mediating role between weak and strong ties and the financing performance of SMEs. In addition, information sharing and innovation capability complement each other and jointly influence the financing performance of SMEs.

Practical implications

SMEs are suggested to actively embed themselves in the supply chain network to increase financing opportunities and reduce financing costs. The authors also recommend SMEs to enhance the level of their information sharing in the supply chain network and take advantage of their network ties to access and adopt new technology from other organisations and conduct collaborative innovation with partner institutions.

Originality/value

The paper extends the authors’ understanding of supply chain finance by exploring the intrinsic mechanism of how various constructs (weak ties, strong ties, information sharing and innovation capability) in the supply chain network have an impact on the financing performance of SMEs. In particular, the authors explore the under-researched mediating effect of information sharing and innovation capability on the relationship between network ties and the financing performance of SMEs.

The conceptual framework on integrated flexibility: an evolution to data-driven supply chain management

Purpose

This paper aims to establish a relationship between supply chain integration (SCI) and supply chain flexibility (SCF) to develop a two-dimensional approach, i.e. integrated flexibility.

Design/methodology/approach

Building on a relational view and dynamic capability theory, this paper argues that integrated flexibility is the strategy that enables organisations to achieve different positions and states to create distinctive capability. The article has proposed the conceptual framework that connects different supply chain strategies and practices to improve supply chain performance (SCP) considering the cross-disciplinary approach.

Findings

The conceptual framework around the new perspective, i.e. integrated flexibility, is built to deal with issues related to operations management. The paper suggests examining the mediating effect of SCF between SCI and SCP and the moderating role of knowledge management (KM), data analytics (DA) and quality management (QM) practices on their relationship. Moreover, research direction in terms of propositions and implications are developed to showcase how underlying practices streamline the supply chain and lead to superior SCP.

Practical implications

The proposed framework discusses the degree of integration and flexibility levels to guide practitioners in designing a supply chain strategy with their partners and answering how much resources need to be extended to achieve flexible operations and realise SCP.

Originality/value

Authors have developed an entirely new integrated flexibility concept that provides a base to sustain in the competitive market. The foundation of integrated flexibility is built on relational view and dynamic capability theory and supported by DA, QM and KM.

Accelerating retail supply chain performance against pandemic disruption: adopting resilient strategies to mitigate the long-term effects

Purpose

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has disrupted global supply chains, revealing dreadful gaps and exposing vulnerabilities. Retailers are challenged to tackle risks and organise themselves to fit into the “new normal” scenario. This global outbreak has established a volatile environment for supply chains; it has raised the question of survival in the market, forcing companies to rethink resilient strategies to be adopted for the post-pandemic situation to mitigate the long-term effects of this virus. This study explores the priorities for retail supply chains (RSCs) to align their business operations and strategies for the post-pandemic world.

Design/methodology/approach

This study has utilised integrated full consistency model (FUCOM) – best–worst method (BWM) for assessment of RSCs to enhance their business performance irrespective of pandemic disruptions. The FUCOM has been employed to identify the priorities of determinants enhancing business performance, whereas RSC strategies are evaluated using the BWM method.

Findings

The current study identifies “Collaboration Efficiency” as the main criterion for accelerating the performance of RSCs in a dynamic social environment. Also, the study concludes that “Order Fulfilment” and “Digital RSCs” are the most appropriate resilient business strategies to mitigate the long-term effects.

Research limitations/implications

Supply-demand balancing is a challenging task at the moment, but highly significant for the future. The pandemic disruptions have placed intense pressure on retailers to deliver products as per consumers' changing behaviours towards the purchase of essentials and other products. Hence, “Order Fulfilment” and “Digital RSCs” should be adopted for meeting customer requirements and to ensure sustainability in the post-pandemic business world.

Originality/value

This work sets out a comprehensive framework which will be helpful for accelerating RSCs performance against pandemic disruption by adopting resilient strategies to mitigate the long-term effects.

The Relationships between Orientation, Collaboration and Performance for Supply Chain Management of Korean FDI Firms for Sustainable Growth

The objective of this study is to verify the relationships between orientation, collaboration and performance for supply chain management (SCM) of Korean foreign direct investment (FDI) firms for sustainable growth. To achieve the objective, this study created the research model, and the research hypotheses came from prior research. The questionnaire was sent to Korean FDI firms, and the collected data were analyzed by various analytical methods such as a factor analysis, a Cronbach’s alpha coefficient, structural equation modeling (SEM) and a moderated regression analysis. The results are as follows. First, orientation for SCM has a positive effect on collaboration for SCM. Global SCM is regarded as an essential part in the era in which a value chain is globalized, and as a result, it is globally performed in the procurement of raw materials, production of goods and sales of final goods. To perform global SCM, staff of manufacturers should have recognition of SCM from the internal viewpoint of a firm, they should create strategy and structure for SCM from the whole viewpoint of a firm, and they should disseminate it to suppliers and customers. Second, collaboration for SCM has a positive effect on supply chain performance. The key factors are collaboration with international logistics service providers as well as inter-departmental collaboration. The collaboration is based on attaining efficiency and effectiveness, and as a result, firms achieve superior supply chain performance.

Contingency Management and Supply Chain Performance in Korea: A COVID-19 Pandemic Approach

Unexpected incidents are driving global supply chains to the brink of collapse. To effectively manage contingency events like the COVID-19 pandemic and improve operational performance, factors such as information technology (IT), relational competencies, cooperation with supply chain partners and integration of supply chain systems that contribute to cooperation are essential. This study found that IT and relational competencies positively influence the integration of supply chain systems, and relational competencies have a stronger implication on supply chain integration and collaboration. In addition, supply chain collaboration, strengthened by supply chain integration, positively affects contingency management. Finally, contingency management positively influences operational performance. In this study, we adopted partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) method in the analysis with 102 surveys collected from business managers. Through the evaluation of determinants of contingency management and supply chain performance, this study widens the theoretical base of supply chain management and provides managers with optimal ways to build a more resilient supply chain system to cope with unexpected incidents. Consequently, with collaboration-based contingency management, companies can solve problems properly and reduce additional loss, which will enhance operational performance and enable sustainable business success.

The impact of information technology capabilities on agri-food supply chain performance: the mediating effects of interorganizational relationships

Purpose

Motivated by the apparent presence of the “productivity paradox” of information technology (IT) in agri-food supply chain (SC), the purpose of this paper is to explore how IT capabilities affect agri-food supply chain performance (SCP). Specifically, this paper investigates the direct and indirect impacts of IT capabilities on agri-food SCP through interorganizational relationships.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper employs the questionnaire survey method based on relevant literatures. Data are collected from Chinese 265 core firms' agri-food SC. Structural equation modelling (SEM) is mainly employed for hypothesis testing and analysis.

Findings

The main findings are as follows. First, IT capabilities have significant direct impact on agri-food SCP. Second, IT capabilities enhance interorganizational relationships in the agri-food SC. Third, interorganizational relationships positively influence agri-food SCP. Last, interorganizational relationships are important path factors and mediate the indirect impact of IT capabilities on agri-food SCP.

Research limitations/implications

This research is limited to a particular sample, that is, agriculture-related firms in Chinese agri-food SC. The results need to be generalized to encompass wider samples. Future research could in greater detail study the links among IT capabilities, interorganizational relationships and agri-food SCP.

Practical implications

The study's findings could provide practical reference value for agriculture-related firms to design appropriate strategies to solve the IT “productivity paradox” and improve agri-food SCP from the perspectives of IT capabilities and interorganizational relationships.

Originality/value

This paper constructs a newly developed framework based on the resource-based view (RBV) and relational view to examine the links among IT capabilities, interorganizational relationships and agri-food SCP, and innovatively verifies the mediating effect of interorganizational relationships on the impact of IT capabilities on agri-food SCP.

Impact of relational communication on buyer–supplier relationship satisfaction: role of trust and commitment

Purpose

The present study aims to examine the impact of relational communication, operationalized in terms of information sharing, quality and frequency of information, on buyer's trust and relationship satisfaction in a buyer–vendor relationship. The study also tests the mediating role of trust and the moderating role of relationship commitment in relational communication and satisfaction relationship.

Design/methodology/approach

The data for the study were collected through a questionnaire survey from 321 managers of the different firms who were directly or indirectly involved in making procurement or purchasing decision in the firm and were familiar with the firm's supplier relationships.

Findings

Relational communication was found to be positively related to relational satisfaction and trust partially mediated this relationship. Further, relationship commitment moderated relational communication-satisfaction relationship, such that the positive affect of relational communication on relational satisfaction was accentuated when buyer experienced higher relationship commitment towards the supplier.

Research limitations/implications

Using single source, self-reported questionnaire data and cross-sectional research design are the limitations of this study. Studies in future should consider a dyadic perspective. The study outlines the need to explore investments and strategies in enhancing relational communication in buyer–vendor relationships.

Originality/value

Anchored in theoretical foundations of social exchange theory, the study integrates and tests behavioral aspects of buyer–vendor relationship. Testing an integrated model with direct and indirect effects of relational communication on relationship satisfaction in buyer–vendor is a significant contribution of the research. The study also contributes by examining relational exchanges in buyer-vendor relationships in India, an underrepresented context in buyer–supplier relationship (BSR) literature.

Proposing a Supply Chain Collaboration Framework for Synchronous Flow Implementation in the Automotive Industry: A Moroccan Case Study

The present paper reports on studying synchronous flow implementation, as a lean supply chain tools, through a collaborative relationship with suppliers. This involves consolidating with a new contribution to the development and application of a supply chain collaboration framework between automotive constructor and first-tier equipment suppliers to achieve the synchronous flow of components. The objective is to provide the automotive companies with a decision-making tool for selecting strategic suppliers to collaborate with, examining the collaboration context in terms of motivators, drivers, and barriers and evaluating the collaboration performance. Therefore, our contribution is structured as follows. As a first step, an overview of papers reporting on collaboration, lean supply chain, and synchronous flow is provided to identify the key elements of successful collaboration relationships. As a result, a preliminary framework is elaborated. The second step described the case study of a leading automotive firm “RENAULT” and its suppliers in Morocco. Based on semi-structured interviews conducted with participants from these companies, the preliminary framework was improved. The next section discusses the obtained results as well as the improved framework. Finally, conclusions and suggestions for further works are included.

Effect of information technology-enabled supply chain integration on firm's operational performance

Purpose

Using the assumptions of the resource-based view, relational view and swift, even flow theories and the overarching principles of supply chain management, the study aims to test the role of information technology (IT) capability (cross-functional application, supply chain application and data consistency) in enabling supply chain integration (SCI; internal, customer and supplier integration) and the impact of SCI on firm's operational performance in terms of quality, delivery, production cost, inventory level, customer service and product-mix flexibility.

Design/methodology/approach

The structural equation modeling approach is used to test theoretical predictions underlying the relationship among dimensions of IT capability, SCI and operational performance based on data obtained from senior executives of 108 large manufacturing firms listed in the Tokyo Stock Exchange.

Findings

The results suggest that IT capability has positive impact on SCI, except for data consistency, which is found to have negative impact on internal integration. The results further indicate that SCI, especially customer integration, has positive and significant impact on all operational performance indicators.

Practical implications

The findings inform future initiatives associated with the SCI improvement via specific IT capabilities. When undertaking such initiatives, managers are advised to consider the differential impact of the following IT capabilities on SCI: cross-functional applications, supply chain applications, and data consistency capability.

Originality/value

The study makes an empirical contribution to the body of knowledge by demonstrating the value of the multidimensional representation and analysis of IT capability, SCI, and operational performance given a differential and even opposed influence by some of the dimensions in specific business contexts.

Taxonomy of organizational alignment: implications for data-driven sustainable performance of firms and supply chains

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to identify, characterize, classify and conceptualize different perspectives on strategic alignment still in use, propose a taxonomy and definitions that allow understanding the various coexisting concepts, as well as investigate the implications of strategic alignment for data-driven sustainable performance of firms and supply chains.

Design/methodology/approach

Bibliographic review was used.

Findings

The taxonomy proposes two classes of strategic alignment: (1) Align – more rigorous types of alignment: structure alignment, strategic congruence and strategy alignment; (2) Fit – less rigorous types of alignment: contingency strategic adjustment, strategic coalignment and strategic consistency. Companies are accumulating large amounts of data, which relevance varies widely. The strategic alignment can define criteria to select only the data that have strategic value, which restricts the amount of data to be analyzed. Each of the six types of strategic alignment is appropriate for a given situation in companies and/or supply chains.

Research limitations/implications

The limitations stem from the exclusive use of the taxonomy of strategic alignment, without considering the most diverse perspectives of strategy.

Practical implications

Decision makers will be able to identify more objectively which classes of data should be explored in each situation.

Social implications

Theoretical implications – The taxonomy proposal and the definition of each of the strategic alignment perspectives solve generalized misunderstandings resulting from the lack of a clear delimitation between the perspectives and the conceptual divergence between authors, who use them as equivalent or synonymous.

Originality/value

From 1961 to 2019, no paper was found proposing taxonomy, typology, systematization, ranking, distribution or classification of strategic alignment. The strategic alignment can define criteria to select, within the large amount of data accumulated by the company, only those that have strategic value, what restricts the quantity of data to be analyzed and facilitates the decision of the leaders.

Arbitrage in gray markets and its impact on supply chain decisions

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the impacts of different gray markets’ structures on both supply chain decisions and associated profits.

Design/methodology/approach

Within the context of gray markets, using game theory approach in this paper, supply chains have been considered as assets of manufacturers, distributors and speculators, within which manufacturers sell products to distinctive markets either directly or through authorized distributors, while speculators buy products from a lower price market and then sell them in a higher price market. Our study has examined different decision variables within such a framework.

Findings

Considering a situation where one manufacturer sells its products either directly in one market (Market 1) or through its authorized distributor (Market 2), due to different products prices in both markets, results have shown that, when market elasticity is less than its critical value, a speculator can sell a gray market product arbitrage in market 2, whereas when the market elasticity is greater than its critical value, a speculator can sell a gray market product arbitrage in market 1. In addition, manufacturers—as leaders of Stackelberg game—are always the most profitable stakeholders within a gray market supply chain.

Practical implications

In this study, equilibrium results for each market have been obtained, optimal results have been compared, and accordingly, valuable insights have been developed. Such results would help managers to take better managerial decisions, as well as strategizing policies in gray markets.

Originality/value

In this paper, we have considered a gray market where both distributors and speculators exist and act as parallel channels. To the best of our knowledge, the extant literature focuses either on distributors or speculators, but never concurrently on both. In fact, the coexistence of one distributor and one speculator in a gray market will impact their own decisions, as well as both decisions and profits of other stakeholders, and hence, will exert an impact on the manufacturer side.

Information sharing and the bane of information leakage: a multigroup analysis of contract versus noncontract

Purpose

This study investigates information quality, information security technology and information sharing with moderation by information security culture and information leakage and how they all play out to influence supply chain performance for contract suppliers (Contract), noncontract suppliers (Noncontract) and pooled suppliers (Contract and Noncontract combined).

Design/methodology/approach

Multigroup analysis was deployed to compare the impact on Contract and Noncontract.

Findings

The finding on pooled suppliers confirmed the hypothesis that, in the multigroup analysis, information security culture negatively impacted the information quality–information sharing relationship of Contract.

Practical implications

The practical learning point is that Noncontract could still share information and perform and in some instances better than Contract. Noncontract suppliers are still workable.

Originality/value

Information security culture motivated Noncontract to share and perform better than Contract. This result presents a dilemma.

Exploring the role of ambidexterity and coopetition in designing resilient fashion supply chains: a multi-evidence-based approach

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the knowledge gaps in the extant literature on the role of ambidexterity and coopetition in designing resilient fashion supply chains (RFSCs), and to develop a contextual framework for effective decision-making to enable practitioners to enhance their supply chain resilience.

Design/methodology/approach

The study adopts a novel multi-evidence-based approach comprising Denyer and Tranfield's (2009) systematic literature review (SLR) with context, intervention, mechanism and outcome (CIMO) logic, text mining and network analysis. The approach constitutes a rigorous methodology that cross-validates results and ensures the reliability and validity of findings.

Findings

The authors identified key knowledge gaps in the literature and explored the main contribution categories (e.g. conceptual understandings, operational impacts, use of theories and frameworks). Subsequently, we developed a contextual framework of ambidextrous coopetition to design RFSCs. Finally, an empirical research agenda is proposed with the five research directions to address the gap and take forward the notion of ambidextrous coopetition and RFSCs.

Research limitations/implications

The multi-evidence-based approach is a structured and triangulated SLR approach and thus lacks empirical study.

Practical implications

This research proposes a contextual framework of ambidextrous coopetition that can be used by fashion companies to embed resilience into their structures and operations. This research also presents an agenda for the future empirical research.

Originality/value

This paper contributes by providing a combinatory synthesis on the role of ambidexterity and coopetition in designing RFSCs. This paper introduces a novel methodological triangulation for improving the quality and validity of SLRs. It identifies significant knowledge gaps and defines directions for future research.

Role of technological dimensions of green supply chain management practices on firm performance

Purpose

The research study aims to investigate green supply chain management (GSCM) elements as part of a complete system. It aims to understand the special properties of the GSCM system under the moderating effects of product complexity and purchasing structure.

Design/methodology/approach

A thorough literature review led to the building of the conceptual framework. Six constructs were identified using systems theory. These constructs include green supply chain technological dimensions (particularly, Artificial Intelligence (AI) based), green supply chain strategy, green supply chain process, product complexity, purchasing structure, and firm performance. The instrument was scientifically developed for gathering survey responses using complete design test methods. The conceptual model was eventually tested based on survey data collected from 250 automotive components and allied manufacturers in the emerging economy of South Africa.

Findings

The results indicate that GSCM technological dimensions (AI-based) positively influence GSCM strategy. Further, GSCM strategy was found to positively influence the GSCM process. The GSCM processes have significant effects on environmental performance, social performance, and financial performance. The product complexity has a significant moderation effect on the paths GSCM strategy and GSCM process.

Originality/value

The findings from multivariate data analysis provide a better understanding of GSCM system dynamics and are helpful to key decision-makers. This unique model has elevated GSCM theory to a new level. There are limited studies available in the existing GSCM literature using systems theory. This study will offer an advanced/comprehensive understanding to readers in this relatively new concept.

Arcs of communication and small- and medium-sized enterprise performance

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to analyse the information shared by SMEs with their main customers and suppliers and its implications on their performance.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper puts forward the concept of arcs of communication based on the frequency and direction of the information exchanged by SMEs with their main customers and suppliers. SMEs are classified by the arc of communication they belong to using data from a survey carried out in the Canary Islands (Spain). The Rasch Measurement Theory is applied.

Findings

The largest group of small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) shares information frequently with both customers and suppliers (broad arc of communication). Differences were detected in the performance of SMEs belonging to this broad arc, as well as, in those firms that communicated frequently with their main suppliers (asymmetrical arc of communication towards suppliers). In both cases, these firms were better than their competitors in innovation.

Practical implications

This study demonstrates the need for better management of the links between SMEs and their suppliers and with their customers in accordance with their strategies, promoting a greater cooperative behaviour throughout the supply chain.

Originality/value

SMEs’ customers and suppliers are their main sources of information compared to large firms, which have greater resources to search for and acquire information. This paper investigates the information exchanged by SMEs with their main customers and suppliers from a strategic focus by adding to the literature the concept of arcs of communication. It also has the added value of applying the Rasch Measurement Theory (Rasch, 1960/1980).

Impact of supply chain information sharing on performance of fashion enterprises

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to develop a novel research model to examine the relationship among information sharing (IS), supply chain integration (SCI), operational performance (OP) and business performance (BP) in the fashion supply chains.

Design/methodology/approach

A survey of 247 executives from Chinese fashion brand firms was conducted and the data were analyzed to investigate how IS affects the organizational BP. Structural equation modeling (SEM) was applied to study the relationship among IS, SCI, OP and BP.

Findings

The empirical research results indicate that IS is critical to enhance the SCI and OP, and both SCI and OP exert mediating effects on BP of fashion brands. This result also reveals constructive suggestions that allow fashion brands to strengthen their SCI and OP, as well as BP.

Research limitations/implications

Multiple data sources were applied to develop the sampling frame, and respondents were selected (according to their experience and position) to ensure they had the knowledge and expertise to provide valid response. However, this could not guarantee the adequacy of the sample. This limitation is compounded by the reliance on a simple respondent per firm, which precludes testing for inter-rater reliability.

Practical implications

The empirical findings provide an enhanced understanding of the relationship among IS, SCI, OP and BP in Chinese fashion brand settings. The research results will help fashion brands to improve supply chain efficiency and enhance company performance.

Originality/value

Although previous studies have realized that the value of IS varies in different industries, few have specifically explored the impact on the fashion industry characterized by short life cycles, high volatility, low predictability and high impulse purchasing. To fill this knowledge gap, the present study employed a questionnaire survey and SEM techniques to explore the relationship among IS, SCI, OP and BP in the fashion supply chain. Comprehending the impact mechanism of IS on organizational performance can provide useful management insights into the development of effective strategies that allow enterprise to improve BP.

Supply chain network and information sharing effects of SMEs’ credit quality on firm performance

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine how a supply chain (SC) network helps small and medium enterprises (SMEs) to obtain liquidity and working capital for enhancing their performance while developing the relationships among SC members through information sharing. Moreover, this study also investigates whether a strong tie or bridge tie improves the availability of SMEs’ credit and performance.

Design/methodology/approach

Using a survey approach, data were collected from textile SMEs, located in Pakistan. Structural equation modeling and hierarchical regression model were run to validate the proposed model and the relationships.

Findings

Findings highlighted that strong tie and bridge tie of SMEs positively and significantly enhance the credit quality and SMEs’ performance. Furthermore, information sharing significantly moderates the relationship between SC network ties and SMEs’ credit quality. Credit quality significantly explains the indirect (mediation) association between the strong tie and the firm performance.

Practical implications

This study will help the SMEs’ entrepreneurs and SC executives to strengthen the liquidity position of SME and improve SMEs’ performance by developing the bridge ties. SMEs should share more information in their SC network while performing business transactions so that financers or lenders can easily access their operational capabilities and individual characteristics to offer them quality credit such as supply chain finance (SCF).

Originality/value

SMEs always face the issue of risk-free financing which adversely affects the firm performance. This study covered the hidden gap in SCM and SMEs’ financing literature by identifying the crucial role of SCF as quality credit in the development of SMEs. Moreover, SMEs can get benefits (e.g. quality credit=SCF) for better embedding in an SC network through information sharing.

Explaining the emergence of hedonic motivations in enterprise social networks and their impact on sustainable user engagement

Purpose

Enterprise social networks (ESNs) in organizations have become an increasingly important technology to support the exchange of information and knowledge. Many ESN projects fail due to insufficient engagement in the long run, leading to the high risk of sunk costs. The purpose of this paper is to investigate how hedonic motivations, along with normative motivations, play an important role in determining an employee’s intention to continuously participate in ESN. Based on the Four-Drive Model and hence borrowing from behavioral economics, it is investigated how such hedonic motivations emerge in organizational ESNs.

Design/methodology/approach

This study is set within the context of a global enterprise of the logistics and courier industry. The authors first derived hypotheses from the Four-Drive Model to build the research model on the emergence of hedonic motivation. Then, the authors derived hypotheses from existing adoption literature regarding the impact of hedonic motivations and normative motivations on ESN use continuance. Following, a quantitative survey was conducted to test these hypotheses. In the study, structural equation modeling is applied, based on partial least squares.

Findings

The results show that the extent to which an ESN supports the drives to comprehend, acquire, bond and defend starkly influences an employee’s hedonic motivations. In addition, it is shown that hedonic motivations have a much stronger influence on use continuance than normative motivations.

Originality/value

Research on hedonic motivations in the work context is still underrepresented, in management science as well as information systems (IS) research. Hence, theoretical approaches to explain and predict the emergence of hedonic motivations in IS usage are missing. With the study, the authors will close this theoretical gap. The study contributes to IS research not only by evaluating the role of hedonic motivation for ESN usage, but also by providing an approach to explain key drivers behind it. To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the first study to empirically test the Four-Drive Model in a voluntary IS context, adding valuable knowledge about human behaviors in digital work environments.

Development and validation of a multidimensional instrument for measuring internal marketing in Chinese higher education

Purpose

Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) require regular generation of information determining what employees want from their institution and their real feelings about their jobs. Internal marketing (IM) can be a significantly valuable source of generating such information for HEIs to assess perceptions about institutions’ initiatives pertinent to their staff members. However, there has been a significantly limited research to operationalize IM in HEIs. Hence, the purpose of this paper is to develop and validate a multi-dimensional instrument for measuring IM in the HEIs in China and to assess the impact of IM on university performance.

Design/methodology/approach

The research used methodological triangulation that involved both qualitative and quantitative methodologies. The qualitative technique was used to generate scale items to measure IM and the quantitative technique was utilized to test and validate the scale. The study sample included 576 academics and administration staff from universities in China.

Findings

The study found that IM has six dimensions, namely internal communications, training and development, interrelations, motivation, rewards and work support. The study also found a significant impact of IM on university performance.

Research limitations/implications

The sample size used was taken from a single province, which can ultimately limit the generalizability of the results. The scale shall be tested in a different cultural setting to extend its generalizability. In comparison with previous studies, the results of the current study provide a more absolute coverage and understanding of various dimensions used in measuring IM in HEIs. Furthermore, this research can provide a context for the management to develop policies that could foster positive employee and organizational outcomes in HEIs.

Practical implications

This reliable and valid six-dimensional scale offers a practical way to measure staff perceptions of IM that are key for HEIs to be judged as staff-centered organization. Based on the knowledge, HEIs can use the information to identify the areas in which they are lacking and can further improve. IM scale can significantly help the HEIs to communicate to the staff members their service mindedness and staff orientation. IM can help foster knowledge management in organizations by utilizing IM, thereby contributing to the professional and organizational interaction.

Originality/value

Despite the focus on IM in existing literature, there is a significant lack of research on IM in the education sector. This study developed a simple and practical instrument to measure the IM construct in HEIs. Scholars have asked for context-specific measures of IM and with significantly limited research on IM in higher education, there is also a scarcity of research in the context of higher education in China. This is the first study to assess the multi-dimensionality of IM in HEIs and the impact of IM on organizational performance in Chinese higher education.

Buyer-supplier relational paradigm in internationalization process

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore international buyer–supplier relationships in an emerging developing country context. The study examines a number of factors derived from internationalization process (IP) theory and their impacts in a novel research setting. The relational variables of trust and commitment, and their drivers, are integrated into a model examining importers’ perspectives of their supplier relationships.

Design/methodology/approach

This study applied a sequential methodological approach. Initially, a conceptual framework was developed from qualitative research and then quantitatively validated using structural equation modeling (SEM). The data for this study were collected conducting in-depth interviews and survey questionnaires. For empirical validation, the SEM technique was applied to assess the proposed model.

Findings

Importing firm managers perceived that the commitment of their suppliers bolstered their trust in the relationship, this contrasts with the conventional contention of a reverse relationship. The findings confirm cultural similarity facilitates communication, leading to increased knowledge and experience of importers, thereby contributing to an enhanced commitment to build trust in the relationship.

Practical implications

The conceptual framework developed in this study provides a direction to manage and enhance understanding of IP and relationship outcome. The findings have strategic implications for practicing managers in developing and supporting their importer–foreign supplier relationships.

Originality/value

This study is unique in assessing as well as validating key constructs of IP theory in an international exchange (importer–supplier) relationship. The study offers completely a new insight in relation to applying IP theory’s relational perspectives.