Exploratory analysis on the relationship between strategy and structure/processes in supply chains : Using the strategy-structure-processes-performance paradigm

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to provide some empirical evidence of the relationship between strategy and structure/processes in supply chains on the basis of the results of an exploratory analysis using survey data from Japanese manufacturers. Design/methodology/approach – This study explores the differences of structure/processes among the four supply chain strategies, that is, efficient, responsive, efficient/responsive, and traditional. Specifically, this study conducts a one-way analysis of variance of the structure/process variables by supply chain strategies. Findings – As the results of exploratory analysis including follow-up interviews with survey respondents, this study found many differences between traditional and efficient/responsive firms on process variables. With regard to structure variables, the existence of a supply chain management department, which is a variable of internal structure, in responsive and efficient/responsive firms is statistically more likely than in efficient firms. In addition, this study found significant differences between efficient and responsive firms, and traditional firms on some variables of external structure. Research limitations/implications – The results of this study explain why efficient/responsive firms can achieve high level of customer service and low operating cost, which is demonstrated by Qi et al . (2009). In addition, this study statistically ensures the validity of Stavrulaki and Davis’s (2010) proposition that firms with agile strategy tend to conduct opportunistic collaboration or have collaborative barriers with their suppliers because of their flexible supply base. Originality/value – This is the first empirical study that explores the relationship among management elements in supply chains including not only strategy but also structure and processes. Through this study, it is implied that the strategy-structure-processes-performance paradigm adopted in this study is useful for exploring the patterns of other management elements that fit in with supply chain strategies.