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Supply chain evolution – theory, concepts and science

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journal contribution
posted on 2023-06-09, 01:07 authored by Bart L MacCarthy, Constantin Blome, Jan Olhager, Jagjit Singh Srai, Xiande Zhao
Purpose: Supply chains evolve and change in size, shape and configuration, and in how they are coordinated, controlled and managed. Some supply chains are mature and relatively unchanging. Some are subject to significant change. New supply chains may emerge and evolve for a variety of reasons. The purpose of this paper is to examine the nature of supply chain evolution and address the question “What makes a supply chain like it is?” Design/methodology/approach: The paper analyses and develops key aspects, concepts and principal themes concerning the emergence and evolution of supply chains over their lifecycle. Findings: The paper defines the supply chain lifecycle and identifies six factors that interact and may affect a supply chain over its lifecycle – technology and innovation, economics, markets and competition, policy and regulation, procurement and sourcing, supply chain strategies and re-engineering. A number of emergent themes and propositions on factors affecting a supply chain’s characteristics over its lifecycle are presented. The paper argues that a new science is needed to investigate and understand the supply chain lifecycle. Practical implications: Supply chains are critical for the world economy and essential for modern life. Understanding the supply chain lifecycle and how supply chains evolve provides new perspectives for contemporary supply chain design and management. Originality/value: The paper presents detailed analysis, critique and reflections from leading researchers on emerging, evolving and mature supply chains.

History

Publication status

  • Published

File Version

  • Accepted version

Journal

International Journal of Operations and Production Management

ISSN

0144-3577

Publisher

Emerald

Issue

12

Volume

36

Page range

1696-1718

Department affiliated with

  • Business and Management Publications

Full text available

  • Yes

Peer reviewed?

  • Yes

Legacy Posted Date

2016-05-05

First Open Access (FOA) Date

2018-11-30

First Compliant Deposit (FCD) Date

2016-11-17

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