Abstract
This study proposes a conceptual framework, which will be used to conduct an empirical study of supply chain performance in SMEs in Uganda. This conceptual framework was developed from the review of the previous literature. The need for this study arises from the fact that where as SMEs form the back borne of Uganda’s economy, they have encountered poor supply chain performance. Previous researchers also indicate that studies in SMEs and their supply chains are limited and that more research is needed regarding the link between marketing and supply chain management. The proposed conceptual framework presupposes a positive relationship between market orientation and supply chain performance with organizational learning, supply chain management strategy, trust and commitment playing mediating roles. It is hoped that this proposed integrative conceptual model will also be used in other future empirical studies.
Highlights
The success of an organization depends heavily upon the success of the supply chain in which it participates as a partner (Zelbst et al; 2009)
This paper developed a conceptual framework for supply chain performance in small- to mid-size enterprise (SMEs) in Uganda
The study found out that market orientation improves trust and commitment (Baker et al 1999; Bigne and Blesa, 2003).As confirmed by Tukamuhabwa et al (2011), Hult et al, (2004), Grant, (1996), Min and Mentzer (2000) and Miguel et al; (2010), the study further revealed that market orientation, commitment, supply chain management strategy and organizational learning improve supply chain performance
Summary
The success of an organization depends heavily upon the success of the supply chain in which it participates as a partner (Zelbst et al; 2009). Juttner et al; (2010) indicated that market orientation influences supply chain performance. Vieira, (2010) argues that market orientation influences organizational learning while Miguel et al; (2010) maintained that knowledge sharing and learning positively influence supply chain performance. The above research gaps indicate a dire need for this study to provide a detailed investigation of how marketing orientation can be used to enhance supply chain performance of SMEs in the Ugandan context. The majority of these SMEs die within their first five years and only 5% to 10% survive and reach maturity (Private Sector Foundation Uganda, 2006).Besides the importance of SMEs in Uganda’s economy, their supply chain performance is problematic (Ntayi et al; 2009). SME supply chains in Uganda are characterized by late deliveries, poor quality products or no deliveries at all, which are indicators of poor supply chain performance (Ntayi and Eyaa, 2010)
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