People as the key factor in competitiveness: a framework for success in supply chain management

Abstract

The main aim of this paper is to propose a framework for the improvement of supply chain processes based on personnel participation, specifically focussed on improving a company's competitiveness.The paper's research has a two-step approach: theory building and theory testing. Theory building consists of proposing a framework for implementing competitiveness through people. To do this, a literature review was conducted.For theory testing, the authors have chosen the ‘action research’ methodology, involving researchers and practitioners to enrich understanding of the field. The paper deploys a longitudinal study, covering more than 20 years of personnel involvement in a company, to explain and justify the reasons and needs for evolution. This practical approach supports the proposed framework.The results of this research are of interest to the business and academic world as they identify critical aspects for the successful implementation of participation programmes in businesses, and also how these aspects should be implemented and developed. This allows businesses which are newcomers to participation programmes, or whose programmes have stalled or are in decline, to take corrective measures that would effectively reorient them towards continuous improvement in supply chain management.