Linking supplier JIT to flexibility performance : the moderating impact of advanced manufacturing technology and human resource empowerment

Purpose: Implementing just-in-time (JIT) practices on the supplier side is a common practice to streamline procurement and production planning in realization of cost efficiency and lead time reduction. However, it is little known how supplier JIT is related to firm flexibility performance and what factors may facilitate the relationship. This study aims to investigate the effects of supplier JIT on flexibility performance and explore the moderating impacts of advanced manufacturing technology (AMT) and human resource empowerment (EMP). Design/methodology/approach: This study applies hierarchical linear regression analysis to test the proposed model based on data collected from 213 manufacturing firms in China. Findings: The results revealed a negative influence of supplier JIT on flexibility performance. However, the adoption of AMT and EMP reconciles the conflict between supplier JIT and flexibility performance. Besides, the results indicate the positive effects of AMT and EMP on flexibility performance. Originality/value: This study contributes to supply chain JIT literature by providing a holistic view to understand the structural relationships between supplier JIT, AMT, EMP and flexibility performance.