Supply chain commitment and business process integration : The implications of Confucian dynamism

Purpose – Despite intense research interest in supply chain management (SCM) over two decades, there is still uncertainty as to what SCM is and how behavioural determinants have an impact on it. The purpose of this study is to explore the linkages between the behavioural and marketing determinants of SCM and their impact on commitment and process integration. Design/methodology/approach – The approach takes the form of descriptive research leading into causal research, using survey data and testing relationships with Structural Equation Modelling. Findings – The study found that there are significant behavioural dimensions in SCM and identified the impact of those dimensions on supply chain commitment and process integration. One noticeable finding of this study was the nature of supply chain commitment within Confucian culture. Research limitations/implications – Data for the study were drawn from one single industry, so the findings are indicative but not representative of all supply chains. Also, the results cannot be generalised to other countries and industries. However, this study acts as a starting‐point to understand how behavioural and marketing determinants may impact supply chain commitment and business process integration. A series of future studies may follow this study to develop a comprehensive understanding of the nature, structures and strategies of supply chain commitment in Confucian culture. Practical implications – This study will enable supply chain managers to understand the role of behavioural and marketing factors in managing supply chains. The root of Confucian culture lies in Asia, and Asia is an integral part of global supply chains. An understanding of Confucian dynamics will enable practitioners to manage these supply chains efficiently. Originality/value – This paper contributes to an understanding of the behavioural/soft determinants in managing supply chains, particularly in Asia. This study also highlights the role of Confucian dynamism in shaping supply chain commitment. Both these areas had previously been under‐researched.