Supply chain resilience as a system quality: survey-based evidence from multiple industries
International Journal of Physical Distribution & Logistics Management
ISSN: 0960-0035
Article publication date: 2 January 2024
Issue publication date: 16 January 2024
Abstract
Purpose
Experiencing more frequent, system-wide disruptions, such as pandemics and geopolitical conflicts, supply chains can be largely destabilized by a lack of materials, services or components. Supply chain resilience (SCRES) constitutes the network ability to recover after and survive during such unexpected events. To enhance the understanding of SCRES as a system-wide quality, this study tests a comprehensive SCRES model with data from multiple industries.
Design/methodology/approach
The study proposes a theoretical framework conceptualizing SCRES as system quality, extending the classical proactive/reactive taxonomy by multiple system states consisting of the supply system properties, behaviors and responses to disruptions. Underlying hypotheses were tested using an online survey. The sample consists of 219 responses from German industries. Maximum likelihood structural equation modeling (ML-SEM) and moderation analysis were used for analyzing the survey data. The study was particularly designed to elaborate on supply chain theory.
Findings
Two pathways of parallel SCRES building were identified: proactive preparedness via anticipation and reactive responsiveness via agility. Both system responses are primarily built simultaneously rather than successively. The present study further provides empirical evidence on the central role of visibility and velocity in achieving comprehensive SCRES, while flexibility only exerts short-term support after a disruption. The study additionally points to potential “spillover effects” such as the vital role of proactive SCRES in achieving reactive responsiveness.
Originality/value
The present study confirms and expands existing theories on SCRES. While stressing the multidimensionality of SCRES, it theorizes the (inter-)temporal evolution of a system and offers practical guidelines for SCRES building in various industrial contexts. It thus supports the transformation toward more resilient and viable supply chains, contributing to the increasing efforts of middle-range theory building to achieve an overarching theory. The study also points to potential future research avenues.
Keywords
Acknowledgements
The authors would like to thank the editors and reviewers for their valuable and constructive comments, which have led to a significant improvement in the manuscript.
Citation
Gruchmann, T., Stadtfeld, G.M., Thürer, M. and Ivanov, D. (2024), "Supply chain resilience as a system quality: survey-based evidence from multiple industries", International Journal of Physical Distribution & Logistics Management, Vol. 54 No. 1, pp. 92-117. https://doi.org/10.1108/IJPDLM-06-2023-0203
Publisher
:Emerald Publishing Limited
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