Future Research Directions in Supply Chain Configuration Problem

Abstract

As in the case of any open and adaptive system, the structure of supply chain has evolved progressively over time from a sequential supply chain, to a global supply chain, a supply network, and alliance networks, respectively. This evolution has reflected the change in business environment from static to dynamic. In Chaps. 1 and 2, we discuss such supply chain configuration phenomenon and shed light on its sources and causes. It was also observed that various components of supply chain have a significant impact on its structure. So what does the future hold for the supply chain configuration problem? To answer this question, we review the anatomy of a supply chain from the perspective of trends and opportunities and their impact on its structure. Then, we propose an agenda for future research in supply chain configuration, which takes into account the confluence of interdisciplinary research and the increasing use of emerging technologies.