Field Of Supply Chain Management Research Articles

Matching supply chain management challenges with blockchain applications

PurposeThis study aims to explore the potential of blockchain technology in the field of supply chain management (SCM). The research is motivated by the emerging significance of blockchain as a disruptive technology that can potentially address a range of challenges faced by SCM professionals globally.Design/methodology/approachIn our approach, this paper utilized a knock-out criteria approach to break down 150 identified challenges in SCM to a more manageable number of 12. The Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) was then used to prioritize these challenges in order of their relative importance and suitability for resolution through blockchain.FindingsThe analysis identified key challenges to be addressed by blockchain technology in SCM. Most notably, it highlighted concerns related to price stability and global financial flows, which closely intertwine. Another significant group of issues pertains to tracking, tracing and the demonstration of sustainability, thus suggesting a substantial potential for blockchain application in these areas. The fifth notable challenge revolves around establishing ownership rights over digital assets or software.Originality/valueThis study identified key challenges in SCM with significant potential for blockchain intervention including price stability, global financial flows, tracking, tracing and the establishment of digital asset ownership. Research gaps exist despite notable progress in applications such as inflation control and tracking – especially in areas like ownership rights and e-commerce. The findings indicate that blockchain has the potential to address SCM challenges and that further exploration and implementation are necessary.

Reconceptualizing supply chain flows (SCFLOWS)

PurposeDespite being a fundamental concept, the field of supply chain management (SCM) exhibits a significant lack of consensus regarding the definition of supply chain flows (SCFLOWS). Additionally, there has been an over-reliance on three flows – material, information and finance – while various other flows crucial to SCM performance have been overlooked. Hence, the purpose of this study is twofold: (1) to explore the multi-dimensional nature of SCFLOWS and (2) to identify additional flows beyond the commonly acknowledged ones that are vital for SCM performance.Design/methodology/approachThis study employs various qualitative methods as part of the abduction process. The methods include in-depth interviews with logistics professionals, a Delphi study involving SCM scholars and a focus group comprising airline industry practitioners.FindingsSeven SCFLOWS dimensions are identified and presented as SCFLOWS framework. Also, two additional flows, i.e. human and capital equipment, are proposed as vital to SCM performance.Originality/valueThis is the first study to introduce SCFLOWS framework to achieve consensus in the field. By introducing two additional flows, it proposes extending the SCFLOWS boundary to include various flows overlooked previously but pertinent to SCM performance. The SCFLOWS framework serves as a systematic guide to validate additional flows and represents an important step towards building SCM theory.

A Bibliometric Analysis on Visualising and Mapping Green Supply Chain Management

The emergent field of green supply chain management (GSCM) has recently piqued the interest of both academics and practitioners, owing to its crucial role in integrating sustainable environmental processes into the traditional supply chain. An essential research goal is to understand the overall structure of research and what has been completed in the area so far to build a strong research program to address forthcoming GSCM problems. The purpose of conducting a bibliometric analysis of GSCM in its current state is to gain insights into the existing body of knowledge, identify trends, and understand the research landscape. Several literature reviews concentrating on certain elements of GSCM have been published from 2002 to 2021 (data update time is April 10, 2021). Thus, this study used a bibliometric method to examine the present level of research on the GSCM. The Scopus database, one of the world-leading publishers-independent global citation databases, was used to search for documents related to GSCM. A bibliometric tool called Bibliometrix was executed to examine the data collected from the search, which generated 717 documents. This software was used to build maps based on scientific publication network data, revealing relationships between researchers, countries, and journals. This comprehensive mapping of the field serves to graphically depict the evolution of publications over time as well as identify current research interests. Finally, the findings of the bibliometric analysis point out a growing trend in green supply chain studies around the world, indicating that people are becoming more conscious of the need for environmental management and protection, and sustainable development.

Discrete-event simulation in logistics and supply chain management: a scientometric perspective

ABSTRACT This paper has been designed in the form of a systematic literature review intended for evaluating the state-of-the-art of discrete-event simulation (DES) usage in the logistics and supply chain management fields under a scientometric perspective. With this primary aim in mind, 127 papers published between 2009 and 2022 are analysed, with the specific purposes of: 1) providing an overview of DES studies in logistics and supply chain management, map the main topics covered within this stream of literature and their evolution in time; 2) providing a robust ranking of the journals and authors in the field; 3) evaluating the rigor in the implementation of DES models in the logistics and supply chain management literature; and finally 4) correlating, through statistical elaborations, all the previous aspects to the success of these papers, measured as the citations received per year, taking inspiration from scientometric disciplines.

The unravelled role of soft skills in the logistics and supply chain management field

The unravelled role of soft skills in the logistics and supply chain management field

Research and Application of Emergency Logistics Resource Allocation Algorithm based on Supply Chain Network

The ”Fuzzy-Enhanced for Emergency Logistics Resource Allocation in Supply Chain Networks (FEM-ELRAS)” presents a novel approach to optimizing emergency logistics and resource allocation in supply chain networks, especially during critical disaster response scenarios. This research integrates fuzzy logic with the improve Multi Agent Genetic Algorithm (MAGA), creating a more adaptive and efficient framework capable of handling the uncertainties and complexities inherent in emergency situations. FEM-ELRAS employs fuzzy decision variables to represent ambiguous and fluctuating parameters like demand at disaster sites, supply availability, and variable transportation conditions. It incorporates a fuzzy inference system, utilizing expert-derived rules to guide the allocation process amidst uncertain and rapidly changing conditions. The algorithm’s evaluation mechanism is enhanced with fuzzy logic, offering a refined assessment of solution effectiveness, balancing multiple logistical objectives such as minimizing response time, optimizing costs, and maximizing resource utilization and delivery precision. Moreover, fuzzy logic principles are integrated into the genetic algorithm’s operators, enabling more context-sensitive and flexible solution adaptations. FEM-ELRAS is particularly designed to navigate the trade-offs between different logistical goals in emergency scenarios, making it a robust tool for decision-makers in disaster management. Its application promises significant improvements in emergency response efficiency, showcasing a step forward in the field of emergency logistics and supply chain management.

A Literature Review to Identify Drivers and Barriers Affecting the Adoption of Green Practices for Indian Manufacturing Companies.

Environmental concerns are an increasingly important issue for many businesses for sustainable development. A supply chain with eco-friendly practices is called a 'Green supply chain' and is commonly observed in most manufacturing companies today. The present study provides an overview of the factors influencing the adoption of green practices by Indian manufacturing companies, including both drivers and barriers. Approximately 260 papers from various journals in the field of green supply chain management were collected to conduct this review to identify the major drivers responsible for implementing green practices and the associated challenge. This review has contributed to identifying the research gap concerning the necessity to explore the key factors influencing the Indian retail manufacturing sector. The study assists organizations in recognizing both the drivers and obstacles that affect the effective and enduring implementation of green manufacturing practices. Embracing these processes is increasingly vital for organizations aiming for sustainability, as well as for comprehending the factors that are propelling the swift transition towards green practices.

Decision-making in closed-loop supply chains: Effects of government subsidies and risk aversion

Closed-loop supply chains (CLSCs) play a crucial role in promoting sustainable resource management, yet their implementation faces challenges in balancing economic viability with environmental goals. While existing research has explored various aspects of CLSC operations, the interplay between government subsidies and risk-averse behavior of supply chain members remains understudied, particularly in systems involving third-party recyclers. This gap hinders the development of effective policies and management strategies for sustainable CLSCs. Herein, we employ a Stackelberg game-theoretic model to investigate decision-making processes in CLSCs under four distinct subsidy scenarios, incorporating risk aversion through mean-variance utility functions. Our results reveal that subsidy effectiveness significantly depends on remanufacturing costs and risk attitudes of supply chain participants. When remanufacturing costs are high, subsidizing third-party recyclers yields superior environmental and economic outcomes, whereas manufacturer subsidies prove more effective when these costs are low. Moreover, we identify critical thresholds in subsidy levels and risk aversion that alter decision-making patterns. These findings provide a framework for designing targeted subsidy policies and risk management strategies in CLSCs, advancing the field of sustainable supply chain management by offering nuanced insights into the complex dynamics between government interventions, risk preferences, and CLSC performance.

Gamification in supply chain education: A comparative study of supply chain card games and board games in Malaysian tertiary institutions

Gamification has gained popularity in educational settings as a tool to enhance learning experiences. This research compares two well-known gamification tools, supply chain master card games and supply chain board games, in their capacity to teach supply chain management (SCM) concepts. Random sample interviews were conducted with students and employees to gather their perspectives on the games and SCM topics. The study evaluates the content delivery, level of understanding, and the advantages and disadvantages of using it for teaching and learning in a criteria table. It is aligned with the Sustainability Development Goal (SDG) 4 which is Quality Education in empowering sustainability through quality education. The findings demonstrate that gamification, including the use of these games, positively impacts the teaching and learning of supply chain management in Malaysian tertiary education. The results indicate that both the Supply Chain Card Game and the supply chain board game have significant advantages in enhancing student engagement, experiential learning, and the understanding of key SCM concepts which involve three (3) main measurements which are characteristics, content delivery, and level of understanding. It improves student engagement, facilitates active learning, and fosters essential skill development. The recognition of gamification's potential has led to policy initiatives supporting its integration into the curriculum, aligning with the goals of learner-centered and experiential education. However, challenges remain in implementing gamified learning approaches effectively. The Malaysian government should acknowledge gamification's potential and provide support for teachers to incorporate gamification tools, including training programs, workshops, and educational resources. By addressing implementation challenges, the sustained integration of gamified learning approaches can be ensured in the Malaysian education system. This research emphasizes the significance of gamification in enhancing teaching techniques and its positive impact on student learning outcomes in the field of supply chain management.

Should We Have Selfish Microgrids?

Substantial breakthroughs in renewable energy have been made in order to reduce energy-induced climate change. Yet our reliance on these sources is still insufficient. The UK’s objective of attaining net-zero emissions by 2050 is highly dependent on shifting to an electrical system that exclusively relies on zero-carbon generation. This entails integrating renewable energy sources, along with other low-carbon sources such as nuclear power, into the energy mix. However, the primary barrier to incorporating additional renewable energy sources into the grid is their intermittent and volatile nature. Therefore, there is a pressing need to stabilise the generation of renewables and manage this volatility by enhancing the balancing mechanism between microgrids and the national grid. This paper examines previous research on microgrids and smart grids, specifically from a supply chain perspective. It has been observed that the majority of the current literature focuses on documenting selfish microgrids that strive to optimise performance at the microgrid level. However, there is an alternative approach that draws inspiration from the field of supply chain management. Consequently, it is possible to enhance a microgrid’s performance within the broader system that it belongs to by reconsidering the timing and location of storage utilisation.

Extending the research agenda for supply chain management in the age of disruption: The multifaceted role and implications of dynamic capabilities

Fueled by disruptive occurrences and innovative technologies, the world’s increasing complexity and uncertainty have presented challenges to supply chain management (SCM). To remain competitive and resilient, firms must adopt dynamic capabilities (DCs) that enable quick responses to environmental changes. By reviewing existing research on SCM and DCs, this study aims to explore the relationship between DCs and SCM in the age of disruption from multiple aspects and examine both the moderating and mediating roles of DCs on firm performance. Moreover, we explore the interplay between dynamic and digital capabilities (i.e., disruptions and innovative technologies), including blockchain, artificial intelligence (AI), and the Internet of Things (IoT), and how they can interactively address SCM challenges. Our findings will not only provide opportunities for further research into the intersection between DCs and the SCM field but also offer practical insights for firms navigating the unpredictable landscape of contemporary business environments.

A Review of COVID-19s Impact on Just-in-Time Production in Automotive Industry

This paper reviews the impact of COVID-19 on Just in Time production in the automotive industry, focusing on the current situation and response in the field of supply chain management. The vulnerability of JIT systems has been exposed as supply chains have been disrupted due to the global lockdown policies brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic. The paper also discusses how automotive companies are coping during the pandemic and the possibility of transforming the production of medical devices. Drawing from various scholarly insights, this paper examines the transition from Just in Time to Just in Case, evaluates the effectiveness of this phenomenon in buffering supply chain disruption issues, and the results suggest that JIC may be the new popular trend in the future, providing more flexibility for businesses in an uncertain social environment. Finally, based on the experience of the automotive industry during the COVID-19 pandemic, this paper puts forward suggestions from three aspects: supply chain collaboration, information security protection, and seeking a balance between inventory and cost.

Optimization and Benefit Assessment of Production Supply Chain Networks Using Graph Neural Network Models

With the flourishing development of global economy, effective management of production supply chains is crucial for the competitiveness of enterprises. Optimizing supply chain networks can not only improve the efficiency of resource allocation but also enhance market responsiveness and systemic risk resistance. Traditional supply chain network optimization methods, focusing mostly on linear models and static analysis, fall short in addressing the growing complexity and dynamism. The emergence of Graph Neural Network (GNN) models in recent years has offered new opportunities to tackle non-linearity and structural dynamism in supply chain networks. However, existing research still faces methodological limitations in supply chain node relationship mining and benefit assessment. This study introduces an optimization and benefit assessment method for production supply chain networks based on GNNs. Firstly, by developing a node role type-aware graph neural network model, this paper achieves in-depth mining and optimization of node relationships within production supply chain networks. Secondly, a hierarchical factor analysis method is used to comprehensively assess the benefits of the production supply chain. This method can dynamically capture changes in node roles and relationships within the supply chain network, optimize the network structure, and provides a multidimensional, multilevel framework for benefit assessment. This study not only expands the application of GNN in the field of supply chain management but also provides a new analytical tool for the comprehensive assessment of supply chain benefits.

Repertory grid technique and Honey’s content analysis: a methodological application to advance qualitative research in OSCM

PurposeThis paper aims to explain and demonstrate how the Repertory Grid Technique (RGT) and Honey’s Content Analysis (HCA) can make new contributions to the field of Operations and Supply Chain Management (OSCM). The proposition involves integrating these complementary analyses to fortify the rigor of qualitative research and establish robust data analysis protocols to identify the main attributes of interviewees regarding a phenomenon while understanding in their perspective how these attributes impact the desired analysis outcome.Design/methodology/approachThis study uses examples with rich empirical data from 40 interviewees across two organizations. The examples use a protocol that allows the grouping of meanings from different knowledgeable individuals and capturing relevant constructs related to an outcome.FindingsThe combination of RGT and HCA permits researchers to effectively identify and analyze the constructs individuals and groups utilize to comprehend the subject matter under investigation. Consequently, these techniques present a structured means to conduct grounded theory investigations and interpretive research, thereby enabling the iterative development of the preliminary conceptual models necessary for OSCM field advancement.Originality/valueWe present two examples in which the protocol is applied to the field of OSCM. These examples illustrate that the techniques provide valuable opportunities for OSCM research, particularly for addressing the limitations related to sample size. Ultimately, RGT and HCA complement quantitative methodologies by uncovering nuanced variations and micro-foundations within firm- and network-level phenomena, offering insights essential for advancing our understanding of OSCM dynamics in specific contexts.

Exploring energy management integration into upstream supply chains: a systematic literature review

In the effort to limit global warming to 1.5°C above the pre-industrial level, decarbonization of supply chains is crucial. Companies will need to reduce not only their direct and indirect emissions (scope 1 and 2) but also their indirect emissions (scope 3). In some sectors, the upstream scope 3 emissions can actually be larger than the companies’ direct emissions. Therefore, a systematic literature review was carried out to understand how previous research in the field of supply chain management (SCM) approached energy efficiency and energy management in the upstream supply chain. The results indicate that only a few studies have addressed energy efficiency within SCM, and the majority assess energy solely as total energy use, without exploring opportunities to reduce final energy use among upstream suppliers. Moreover, results show that there is a lack of standards and methods to assess suppliers’ energy use, making it difficult for suppliers, particularly small and medium-sized enterprises, to overcome barriers to implementing energy management. In conclusion, even though energy efficiency is a cost-effective means to reduce CO2 emissions, only a limited number of studies in the field of SCM have integrated energy efficiency, revealing a vast knowledge gap in this field.

The role of digital transformation in achieving sustainable supply chain management in Industry 4.0: an editorial review perspective

ABSTRACT Before and aftermath of COVID-19 has created multiple waves of digital transformation adoption in supply chain management. The power of potential benefits is realised as a multitude however the transformation phases are not sustainable. This editorial special issue has edited papers of scholarly research contributions to the theory and practice of digital transformation aspects in the field of logistics and supply chain management. Based on the summary of each contribution and an extended literature review on the theme, this editorial paper proposes a novel framework that could facilitate the logistics industry at times of disruptive technologies when firms are struggling to cope with the challenges created due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the recovery.

Challenges in adopting blockchain technology in supply chain management: a too far fetched idea?

PurposeRecent technological advancements, often linked to Industry 4.0, require organizations to be more agile and innovative. Blockchain technology (BT) holds immense potential in driving organizations to achieve efficiency and transparency in supply chains. However, there exist some insurmountable challenges associated with the adoption of BT in organizational supply chains (SC). This paper attempts to categorically identify and systematize the most influential challenges in the implementation of BT in SC.Design/methodology/approachThis study resorts to an extensive literature review and consultations with experts in the field of supply chain management (SCM), information technology and academia to identify, categorize and prioritize the major challenges using VlseKriterijumska Optimizacija I Kompromisno Resenje (VIKOR) and Combined Compromise Solution method (CoCoSo).FindingsThe top three classes of challenges revealed in this study are privacy challenges (PC), infrastructure challenges (IC) and transparency challenges (TC). Maintaining a balance between data openness and secrecy and rectification of incorrect/erroneous input are the top two challenges in the PC category, integration of BT with sustainable practices and ensuring legitimacy are the top two challenges in the IC category, and proper and correct information sharing in organizations was the top most challenge in the TC category.Originality/valueFuture scholars and industry professionals will be guided by the importance of the challenges identified in this study to develop an economical and logical approach for integrating BT to increase the efficiency and outcome of supply chains across several industrial sectors.

Crafting an Inclusive Procurement Policy: Strategies for Embracing Supplier Diversity

Purpose: In today's global marketplace, diversity and inclusion have transitioned from mere buzzwords to indispensable elements of successful business practices. A robust procurement policy that embraces supplier diversity not only cultivates a more inclusive supply chain but also drives economic growth and social progress. Methodology: This article examines key strategies for integrating supplier diversity into procurement policies, drawing insights from existing literature and best practices in the field of supply chain management and diversity initiatives. Findings: The article outlines strategies such as incorporating diverse suppliers into Requests for Proposals (RFPs), setting thresholds for diverse supplier consideration, addressing risk acceptance and deviations, and emphasizing genuine efforts over token gestures. It highlights the importance of striking a balance between excellence and diversity while prioritizing active engagement with diverse suppliers. Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice, and Policy: By synthesizing insights from academic research and real-world case studies, this article offers actionable recommendations for organizations seeking to enhance their supplier diversity initiatives. It underscores the necessity of genuine efforts in supplier diversity initiatives, advocating for the integration of diversity considerations into procurement policies to foster economic empowerment, social equity, and long-term sustainability in supply chain operations.

An enhanced MADM with Lq* q-Rung orthopair multi-fuzzy soft set in healthcare supplier selection

The global healthcare systems have encountered unparalleled difficulties due to the COVID-19 pandemic, underscoring the crucial significance of effective management within healthcare supply chains. This research contributes to the field of healthcare supply chain management by presenting a robust MADM methodology called lattice ordered(Lq*) q-rung orthopair multi-fuzzy soft set(Lq* q-ROMFS-MADM) for supplier evaluation and ranking amidst the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. Taking inspiration from multi-fuzzy soft set and q-rung orthopair fuzzy set, the present research article proposes a novel framework known as Lq* q-rung orthopair multi-fuzzy soft set (Lq* qROMFSS), which incorporates lattice ordering in q-rung orthopair multi-fuzzy soft set. The effectiveness of the proposed model is confirmed through successful experimentation on various important operations, including union, intersection, complement, restricted union and intersection. Moreover, the verification of De Morgan’s laws for Lq* qROMFSS is carried out specifically for these operations mentioned above. To highlight the significance of the proposed Lq* qROMFSS, a multi-attribute decision-making (MADM) problem is presented, showcasing its application in the domain of healthcare supply chain management. Furthermore, a comparative analysis is conducted to elucidate the advantages of this model in comparison to existing models.

Revolutionizing Retail: Examining the Influence of Blockchain-Enabled IoT Capabilities on Sustainable Firm Performance

Blockchain has revolutionized the field of supply chain management, allowing firms to optimize their operations and achieve enhanced levels of efficiency and environmental responsibility. This study investigates the relationships between the functionalities of the blockchain-enabled Internet of Things (IoT) and many aspects of the supply chain, namely, supplier integration, internal integration, customer integration, and sustainable logistic capabilities. It also analyses the impact of these correlations on the supply chain performance and sustainability of firms. This study is grounded in an empirical inquiry carried out using a questionnaire survey of the retail industry in Pakistan. Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modelling (PLS-SEM) was employed to analyze the data. The findings indicate a direct correlation between the use of BC-enabled Internet of Things (IoT) capabilities and the integration of the supply chain, as well as logistic capabilities. Furthermore, there is a strong and meaningful correlation between blockchain-enabled supply chain integration and sustainable logistic capabilities and firm performance. The research findings indicate that the combined impact of digital innovations results in higher levels of corporate performance and sustainability. By embracing digitization through blockchain technology, business organizations can attain supply chain excellence. This integration enhances the adoption of environmentally beneficial actions, minimizes waste, and decreases carbon emissions across supply chains, thus reinforcing the connection between sustainable firm performance and environmental sustainability. As a result, the enterprises may execute sustainably through improved logistical capabilities and effective integration. The results hold great theoretical and practical significance for improving supply chain management efficacy and accomplishing multiple SDGs, including SDG-8, SDG-9, SDG-11, and SDG-12.