The Impact of Information Technology on Supply Chain Relationship Management: An SME-based Analysis

• Main Authors: Chien-Liang Kuo, 郭建良
• Other Authors: 陳文賢
• Format: Others
• Language: en_US
• Published: 2004
• Online Access: http://ndltd.ncl.edu.tw/handle/97547242808076584673

博士 === 國立臺灣大學 === 資訊管理學研究所 === 92 === Inter-organizational systems (IOSs) have long been regarded as powerful mechanisms that facilitate next-generation supply chain management (SCM). When aligned with business strategies, IOSs help firms resolve problems of supply chain (SC) operations, thus resulting in improved SC relationships. This claim has been successfully realized by many focal companies in many sectors. However, we argue against the generalizability of this claim for the following reasons. (1) IOS-based SC relationship management may be not applied by small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), because of their limited power and resource. (2) Due to the nature of IT, we believe that IT may benefit companies managing SC relationships, even without the use of IOSs. This dissertation explores the roles of IT from an SME perspective. Eight SMEs within four SCs are investigated using a detailed case study approach. In validating the IOS-based viewpoint in terms of SC relationship management, we build an IOS-based model based on a literature review, and test it against our case data. In recognizing the poor explanatory power of this model, this dissertation then develops a model that shows how SMEs link strategies, IT, contexts, and SC relationships. An in-depth analysis helps identify three orders of IT effects. Each is further discussed and explored. Finally, based on the findings, propositions about the value and the role of IT on SC relationship management are made; relevant suggestions and implications are also stated. Results indicate that from an SME perspective, the impact of IT, as well as the influence paths of IT on SC relationship management are complex, diverse, and multi-dimensional. First, with regard to IOS-based scenarios, the impact of IOSs on SC relationships is seriously influenced by a number of antecedents that may cause IOSs to result in negative effects on SC relationships in some cases. Second, IOSs are not the only route available for improving SC relationships for SMEs. In contrast, the popularity of the second order IT effects implies that, IT may not bring as much direct influence on SC relationship management as expected. Finally, IT by nature is neutral, and can be still regarded as an enabler for realizing desired SC relationships and business strategies in the SC context.