Path analysis model for supply chain risk management

The purpose of this paper is to develop a model to understand the relationship of supply chain risk sources, risk drivers, and risk mitigation strategies to the overall risk exposure of the firm and to validate the model empirically. An attempt has been made to determine the major contributors of supply chain risk as viewed by automotive professionals in today's competitive market. This study empirically validates the effects of the three critical constructs on overall supply chain risk exposure. The limitations of this study can be seen in the use of perceptual data from single informants and the focus on automotive firms in a single country. The detailed operationalization of the constructs sheds further light on the major risk sources, drivers, and mitigation strategies in supply chain networks. Clear evidence of proactive strategies in mitigating risks provides managers with a business case to invest in such initiatives

Perceived benefits and barriers of ICT adoption among SMEs

Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) are a key economic sector in Malaysia. In 2005, there were 99.2 per cent or 518,996 SMEs in the country. They contributed to 65.1 percent of employment and 47.3 percent of labor productivity. Due to the importance of SMEs, the Malaysian government formed National SME Development Council (NSDC) in 2004 to oversee the development of SMEs in the country. On the other hand, in order to leverage the power of ICT, particularly the Internet, Malaysian government formed National Information Technology Council (NITC) in 1994 to provide information and communication technology (ICT) assistance to Malaysian companies. This chapter examines perceived benefits and barriers of Internet-based ICT adoption among SMEs in Malaysia. Questionnaire was used to collect data from 406 managers/owners of SMEs in Malaysia. Analysis reveals the composite ICT benefits and barriers to ICT adoption. The chapter ends with a discussion and interpretation of the findings including key implications for research, practice and policy