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Supply chain evolution – theory, concepts and science

Research output: Contribution to Journal/MagazineJournal articlepeer-review

Published
  • B.L. MacCarthy
  • C. Blome
  • J. Olhager
  • J.S. Srai
  • Xiande Zhao
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<mark>Journal publication date</mark>5/12/2016
<mark>Journal</mark>International Journal of Operations and Production Management
Issue number12
Volume36
Number of pages23
Pages (from-to)1696-1718
Publication StatusPublished
<mark>Original language</mark>English

Abstract

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.