2 research outputs found
Strategic role of internet-related technologies in supply chain networks
PhD ThesisOrganisations are operating in increasingly competitive market places. To enhance
competitiveness, organisations are shifting their focus from individual supply chains
to improving the responsiveness of the whole Supply Chain Network (SCN) that
serves and impacts the level of final product or service provided to customers.
Consequently, there has been a major upsurge of interest in the role of Internet-related
technologies (IRT) in advancing SCNs. This area was examined by conducting case
studies with large organisations from a range of industries that focused on the
function of IRT in inter-organisational supply chain processes.
A number of major themes emerged. Firstly, it is clear that IRT will be at the heart of
future SCN communication surrounding enabling, operational and strategic supply
chain processes. IRT provide a mechanism for integrating different supply chainrelated
systems thus leading to improved information sharing and visibility.
Furthermore, it widens the scope and flexibility of intra-organisational and interorganisational
linkages and pathways that are available between different network
members. In addition, IRT is being used to broaden and deepen relationships with key
partners and within teams formed around supply chain processes. IRT can also be
personalised to suit different organisations and people in the SCN and to provide
appropriate access to web links, information and applications.
However, it is important to understand that IRT cannot be equally applied throughout
the supply chain. A number of factors will influence its suitability including the type
and stage of supply chain processes, the nature of activities, the content of
communication and the people communicating. The thesis will provide guidance to
academics and practitioners on the strategic role of IRT. Finally, future research is
recommended to investigate the additional impact that smart tags and mobile
technologies will have and the long term effects of technological linkages on social
relations between different network members.Division of Business Information
Management and the Department of Computing, of Glasgow Caledonian University