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Showing papers in "International Journal of Physical Distribution & Logistics Management in 2012"


Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: In this article, the effects of supply chain risk management (SCRM) on the performance of a supply chain remain unexplored and the aim of this research is to provide clarity by empirically testing these hypotheses and scrutinizing the findings by the means of case studies.
Abstract: Purpose – The effects of supply chain risk management (SCRM) on the performance of a supply chain remain unexplored. It is assumed that SCRM helps supply chains to cope with vulnerabilities both proactively by supporting robustness and reactively by supporting agility. Both dimensions are assumed to have an influence on the supply chain's customer value and on business performance. The aim of this research is to provide clarity by empirically testing these hypotheses and scrutinizing the findings by the means of case studies.Design/methodology/approach – The research is empirical. Survey data were collected from 270 manufacturing companies for hypotheses testing via structural equation modeling. Additionally, qualitative data were collected to explore the nature of non‐hypothesized findings.Findings – It is found that SCRM is important for agility and robustness of a company. Both agility and robustness show to be important in improving performance. While agility has a strong positive effect only on the s...

397 citations


Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: The purpose of this paper is to discuss the complementarities of DCs and SSCM research; and to develop a framework which integrates DCs in SSCm practices, which is conceptual in nature and grounded in S SCM and DC theory.
Abstract: Purpose – Most sustainable supply chains are situated in dynamic environments, which leads to the assumption that management of such chains requires the application of dynamic management theories, such as the dynamic capabilities (DC) concept. In spite of this, DCs have only scarcely been taken up in (sustainable) supply chain management (SSCM) research. The purpose of this paper is twofold: first, to discuss the complementarities of DCs and SSCM research; and second, to develop a framework which integrates DCs in SSCM practices. Design/methodology/approach – The paper is conceptual in nature and grounded in SSCM and DC theory. Relevant literature from the SCM, SSCM and DC context has been scrutinized. In total, three models from SSCM and DC literature, together with related inputs from other literature sources, have been conjoined. Findings – DC and SSCM are linked through similar environmental and organizational conditions, making the application of DC concepts in the field of SSCM a logical choice. The...

299 citations


Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: In this article, the authors investigate the adoption of green supply chain practices by third party logistics (3PLs) in Italy in terms of specific practices implemented and level of adoption of each practice, and explore how this adoption can affect the company performance.
Abstract: Purpose – The pressure on logistics companies to embrace green processes has increased significantly in the last few years. Within the broad concept of green supply chain management, a review of the existing literature has highlighted a need to understand how green supply chain practices (GSCP) can contribute to improving company performance from an environmental point of view, as well as economic and operational. This paper aims to investigate the GSCP adopted by third party logistics (3PLs) in Italy in terms of specific practices implemented and level of adoption of each practice, and to explore how this adoption can affect the company performance.Design/methodology/approach – Multi‐case study research involving 15 3PLs operating in Italy, with data collected through face‐to‐face semi‐structured interviews with senior representatives from each company.Findings – Even if findings reveal an overall increasing interest towards environmental issues, the current level of adoption of GSCP is still limited amo...

241 citations


Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: In this paper, the authors developed a model for upstream supply chain risk management linking risk identification, risk assessment and risk mitigation to risk performance and validate the model empirically, and the effect of a continuous improvement process on identification, assessment, and mitigation is also modeled.
Abstract: Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to develop a model for upstream supply chain risk management linking risk identification, risk assessment and risk mitigation to risk performance and validate the model empirically. The effect of a continuous improvement process on identification, assessment, and mitigation is also modeled.

226 citations


Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: In this paper, the authors assess the quality of case study based research approach as documented in articles published during the past 13 years, based on a synthesis of indicators for the quality criteria truth value, transferability, and traceability.
Abstract: Purpose – This paper aims to assess the quality of the case study based research approach as documented in articles published during the past 13 years, based on a synthesis of indicators for the quality criteria truth‐value, transferability, and traceability.Design/methodology/approach – Content analysis of 134 case study‐based articles published in six leading logistics and supply chain management (SCM) journals between 1998 and 2010 is used to assess and evaluate the quality of the case study‐based research approach as documented in these publications.Findings – This research provides an overview of the quality of the case study‐based research approach. Results show that the quality is generally low, supporting the ongoing, but empirically unsupported criticism on the quality of case study‐based research. The results also highlight which specific aspects authors and reviewers need to address to ensure high quality of the case study‐based research approach in published articles.Research limitations/impli...

181 citations


Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: There is a significant opportunity to advance the discipline through the rigorous application of mixed methods research, which would serve the advancement of the discipline as these approaches provide r...
Abstract: Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to describe how to implement mixed methods research in supply chain management.Design/methodology/approach – A review of past journal analyses on research methods used in supply chain management‐related disciplines is conducted to demonstrate the low incidence of mixed methods research in supply chain management. Drawing from literature on multiple and mixed methods research, the paper provides guidelines for designing and reporting such studies.Findings – Knowledge development in logistics and supply chain management relies primarily on single‐method quantitative research designs, while mixed methods approaches are rarely used. Thus, there is a significant opportunity to advance the discipline through the rigorous application of mixed methods research.Research limitations/implications – Supply chain management phenomena are complex and dynamic. Thus, the application of mixed methods research would serve the advancement of the discipline as these approaches provide r...

166 citations


Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: In this article, a meta-analysis of 48 studies that report outcomes of EDI or RFID adoption was performed to investigate the moderating effect of the buyer-supplier relationship on the relationship.
Abstract: Purpose – Successfully implementing and exploiting the right information technologies is critical to maintaining competitiveness in today's supply chain. However, simply adopting off‐the‐shelf technologies may not necessarily induce this competitiveness unless the organization combines these technologies with additional complimentary resources. This study draws on the logistics innovation literature, resource‐advantage theory, and the resource‐based view of the firm with the purpose of investigating performance outcomes of logistics information technology (LIT) adoption and the proposed moderating effect of a complimentary resource. The paper posits that combining LIT with positive buyer‐supplier relationships may set the stage for organizations to achieve competitive advantage.Design/methodology/approach – A meta‐analysis of 48 studies that report outcomes of EDI or RFID adoption was performed. Regression was used to investigate the moderating effect of the buyer‐supplier relationship on the relationship...

144 citations


Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: A step‐by‐step guide intended to increase researchers' understanding of the use of grounded theory (GT) methodology in supply chain contexts is provided, illustrated by examples from the authors' own research.
Abstract: Purpose – Development of theory remains an essential step in the evolution of supply chain management as an integrative business discipline. Supply chain research often involves phenomena possessing complex behavioral dimensions at both the individual and organizational levels. Such complexity can require the utilization of holistic and inductive approaches in order to more fully understand the behaviors associated with the phenomena. This paper aims to provide a step‐by‐step guide intended to increase researchers' understanding of the use of grounded theory (GT) methodology in supply chain contexts.Design/methodology/approach – The paper argues for GT as an appropriate method for studying emerging supply chain phenomena using an inductive, holistic approach.Findings – GT is positioned in a holistic framework of research methodologies. Next a step‐by‐step explanation of the grounded theory process is offered, illustrated by examples from the authors' own research.Originality/value – This paper links the c...

107 citations


Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: In this article, the authors investigated the impact of contextual factors and operations changes on the success of a modal shift in a large-scale non-bulk, fast-moving goods distribution system.
Abstract: Purpose – A commonly suggested measure to make logistics greener is a shift to intermodal road‐rail transportation. Most research addresses the issue from the carrier's perspective, arguing for ways to improve the service production to better fit the shippers' demand. In this article the issue is addressed from the shipper's perspective. The purpose is to understand what contextual factors and operations changes that are possible and/or necessary for the shipper to make a fit to the current production system.Design/methodology/approach – Six case companies selling non‐bulk, fast moving goods are examined. These firms have gone against the mainstream and shifted modes of transport. They are investigated through a multiple case‐study design.Findings – The findings indicate that contextual factors stressed in the carrier‐focused literature, or rule of thumb decisions made by shipping logistics management, do not always clearly predict the success of a modal shift. However, some common denominators emerge amo...

107 citations


Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: The management of interfaces is central in supply chain management (SCM) and logistics as discussed by the authors and an important part of SCM is coordination and collaboration with different partners such as suppliers, interme...
Abstract: The management of interfaces is central in supply chain management (SCM) and logistics. An important part of SCM is coordination and collaboration with different partners such as suppliers, interme ...

86 citations


Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: The authors extrapolated seven RL disposition decision components from a compilation of 60 variables identified in the literature and presented a decision framework that may guide future investigation and practice.
Abstract: Purpose – The purpose of this study is to identify the critical components of the reverse logistics (RL) disposition decision‐making process and suggest a decision framework that may guide future investigation and practice.Design/methodology/approach – The authors utilized a problem‐driven content analysis methodology. RL literature from 2000 through 2010 was content analyzed to determine which components may impact a firm's RL disposition decision.Findings – The authors extrapolated seven RL disposition decision components from a compilation of 60 variables identified in the literature. Practical implications and suggestions for future research are offered, and a RL disposition decision‐making framework is presented.Research limitations/implications – Although methodological techniques were carefully followed, the nature of a content analysis may be subject to author bias. Future investigation and use of the framework presented will verify the findings presented here.Practical implications – This study i...

Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: It is found that no standard criteria for publication of grounded theory research exists in logistics and supply chain journals and publications that do not adequately address or report on the process for developing a grounded theory are published.
Abstract: Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to analyze previous grounded theory articles and, based on this analysis, to provide a framework to assist reviewers in evaluating grounded theory research and increasing the rigor and credibility of this methodology in logistics and supply chain journals.Design/methodology/approach – An analysis of existing articles appearing in the leading logistics and supply chain journals combined with an extensive review of the grounded theory method literature were used to develop a comprehensive framework for evaluating grounded theory research.Findings – The paper finds that no standard criteria for publication of grounded theory research exists in logistics and supply chain journals. Grounded theory is routinely confused with other qualitative methodologies. Overall, this situation leads to publications that do not adequately address or report on the process for developing a grounded theory.Research limitations/implications – Reviewers can use this paper to establish the qu...

Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: A paradigmatic reflection on theoretical approaches recently identified in logistics and supply chain management, namely complex adaptive systems and complexity thinking, is provided and it is concluded that the underlying systems approach is the dominant approach in SCM and logistics research.
Abstract: Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to provide a paradigmatic reflection on theoretical approaches recently identified in logistics and supply chain management (SCM); namely complex adaptive systems and complexity thinking, and to compare it to the dominant approach in logistics and SCM research, namely the systems approach. By analyzing the basic assumptions of the three approaches, SCM and logistics researchers are guided in their choice of research approaches which increases their awareness of the consequences different approaches have on theory and practice.Design/methodology/approach – The point of departure for the research presented is conceptualization based on literature reviews. Furthermore, years of observations, discussions and empirical studies of logistics operations and management have also influenced the design of this research.Findings – With a discourse set in relation to the dominant approach in SCM and logistics research, the systems approach, it is concluded that the underlying ass...

Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: In this article, the authors present an investigation into the causes of promotional on-shelf availability shortfalls in retailing, and identify 32 causes affecting on-'shelfavailability, grouped into eight themes, six of which are generic (forecasting, collaboration, replenishment, IT, distribution and production), and two specific to promotions (timescales and promotional process).
Abstract: Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to present an investigation into the causes of promotional on‐shelf‐availability (on‐shelf‐availability) shortfalls in retailing.Design/methodology/approach – The research follows a multiple‐case study research design involving seven major retailers and four multinational food manufacturers operating in the UK. The data collection took the form of semi‐structured interviews with 110 practitioners across 24 sites. Observations and documentation were used as supporting evidence.Findings – Improving promotional on‐shelf‐availability presents retailers and manufacturers with a complex set of inter‐connected problems distributed across the supply chain. This research identified 32 causes affecting on‐shelf‐availability, grouped into eight themes, six of which are generic (forecasting, collaboration, replenishment, IT, distribution and production), and two which are specific to promotions (timescales and promotional process). This classification provides practitioners with...

Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: In this paper, the authors examined the quality of the extant supply chain management (SCM) research which has utilized a grounded theory (GT) approach and provided guidelines to both reviewers and researchers who might use GT in future studies, with the goal of improving the validity and rigor of GT research.
Abstract: Purpose – This study aims to examine the quality of the extant supply chain management (SCM) research which has utilized a grounded theory (GT) approach. The purpose of this research is to better understand the current state of the field, by introducing and highlighting the distinctions between the Glaserian and Straussian schools of thought and examining the extent to which existing SCM research has either complied with or diverged from the six dimensions which distinguish the two schools of thought. By doing so, it aims to provide guidelines to both reviewers and researchers who might use GT in future studies, with the goal of improving the validity and rigor of GT research.Design/methodology/approach – The method underlying this paper followed the steps of a systematic literature review process. GT works within leading SCM journals were examined to determine the extent to which they complied with the methodological tenets of GT.Findings – The systematic literature review shows that, while the use of GT...

Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: In this article, the authors present a study on how LSPs handle the performance of supply chains in the context of a supply chain, focusing on the role of the LSP in creating logistics performance.
Abstract: Purpose – Logistics service providers (LSPs) are important actors for creating logistics performance in supply chains. However, there is little previous research on how they handle the performance ...

Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: In this paper, the authors focus on the process of standardization to secure consistency of product carbon footprinting (PCF) and outline how the current developments in PCF support the need for a standardized method to measure and report environmental performance in supply chains.
Abstract: Purpose – Over the last decade, multiple initiatives have been undertaken to learn how to capture the carbon footprint of a supply chain at a product level. The purpose of this paper is to focus on the process of standardization to secure consistency of product carbon footprinting (PCF) and to outline how the current developments in PCF support the need for a standardized method to measure and report environmental performance in supply chains. Design/methodology/approach – This paper is based on a literature review and a review of international standards for PCF which brings knowledge of PCF to the existing literature of green supply chain management. Findings – The multiple initiatives for standardization each improve the understanding of standardized methods of conducting PCF. At the same time, however, important differences exist between the standards in terms of the modelling framework to be used when conducting a PCF, and a paradox exists concerning methods for securing future standardization of PCF....

Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: The paper aims to demonstrate how the two studies provided insights into how qualitative techniques such as the repertory grid can be made more rigorous than in the past, and how results can be generated that are inaccessible using quantitative methods.
Abstract: Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to share the authors' experiences of using the repertory grid technique in two supply chain management studies. The paper aims to demonstrate how the two studies provided insights into how qualitative techniques such as the repertory grid can be made more rigorous than in the past, and how results can be generated that are inaccessible using quantitative methods.Design/methodology/approach – This paper presents two studies undertaken using the repertory grid technique to illustrate its application in supply chain management research.Findings – The paper presents insights into supply chain research that otherwise would not have emerged using traditional methods. Both studies derive a comprehensive list of empirical categories of constructs, many of which have not been identified in the extant literature. Moreover, the technique demonstrates that frequently‐mentioned constructs are not necessarily the most important.Research limitations/implications – The paper demonst...

Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: The application of WSN is applied in an actual supply chain of chilled cod transported from Iceland to Europe, which has relevance in assisting management decision making in the supply chain to prevent losses of quality and minimize waste.
Abstract: Purpose of this paper Wireless Sensor Network technologies are now available to implement real time temperature monitoring systems in food supply chains. The aim of this paper is to examine different types of methods and criteria to establish alerts in decision support systems in perishable food supply chains. Design/methodology/approach Logistic and temperature mapping was performed in cod supply chains to obtain data to establish criteria for temperature alerts. Data was collected for both ambient temperature and temperature of products packed in Expanded Polystyrene boxes. Findings Alerts based on single criterion for ambient temperature resulted in false alerts when compared to criteria for product temperature. More complex methods that took into account both temperature abuse and the severity of the abuse resulted in more relevant alerts for the chilled cod supply chain. Research limitations/implications The research is based on mapping of cod supply chains with a limited number of iterations. Practical implications The scope of the research is the application of WSN in an actual supply chain of chilled cod transported from Iceland to Europe, which has relevance in assisting management decision making in the supply chain to prevent losses of quality and minimize waste. What is original/value of paper Failure to maintain a low temperature occurs frequently at handover points where alert systems are usually not in place. The theoretical implication of this paper is the development of a conceptual framework for setting up temperature criteria for real time decision support systems in food supply chains.

Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: In this paper, an in-depth review of 75 small sample survey studies published between 1998 and 2007 in three journals in the field that frequently publish survey-based research papers (TJ, IJPDLM, and JBL) was conducted, and key characteristics of these studies were compared with the characteristics from 44 small sample surveys published in leading operations management (JOM) and management (AMJ) journals.
Abstract: Purpose – Attaining high response rates in survey‐based supply chain management (SCM) research is becoming increasingly difficult, but small samples can limit the reliability and validity of empirical research findings. The purpose of this article is to analyze the status quo and provide a discussion of methodological issues related to the use of small samples in SCM research.Design/methodology/approach – An in‐depth review of 75 small sample survey studies published between 1998 and 2007 in three journals in the field that frequently publish survey‐based research papers (TJ, IJPDLM, and JBL) was conducted, and key characteristics of these studies were compared with the characteristics from 44 small sample survey studies published in leading operations management (JOM) and management (AMJ) journals.Findings – The review of papers published in TJ, IJPDLM, and JBL shows that small samples are frequently used in SCM research. This study provides an overview of current practices, opportunities for improvement...

Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: A three-step approach is developed to facilitate a well-directed flexibility and adaptability design within a build-to-order context: context-specific operationalization, thorough segmentation using advanced logistic criteria and purposeful deduction of improvement means.
Abstract: Purpose – Given volatile markets, the ability to quickly act is fundamental for companies – in regard to the internal production and to external supply flows in the value network. Related flexibility and adaptability concepts are vague and contradictory. Managerial methods either imply a generic application level or a narrow focus. Thus, the purpose of this paper is to develop a three-step approach to facilitate a well-directed flexibility and adaptability design within a build-to-order context: context-specific operationalization, thorough segmentation using advanced logistic criteria and purposeful deduction of improvement means. Design/methodology/approach – Based on a thorough literature review, a procedural approach is developed and applied within two rigorously conducted company-cases. A triangulation setting is used within the empirical analysis. Findings – A company's capability to act appropriately, quickly and economically in the face of volatility can be remarkably advanced through context-spec...

Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: In this paper, the authors identify and systematically discuss generic forms of contract logistics services and their distinct underlying approaches for fulfilling their respective value propositions, and develop an analytical framework based on conceptual considerations.
Abstract: Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to identify and systematically discuss generic forms of contract logistics services and their distinct underlying approaches for fulfilling their respective value propositions. A general frame of reference is developed that addresses the value proposition, as well as the value creation architecture that leads to generic business model configurations for contract logistics services. The framework is built upon the basic notions of service theory, competence research and the resource based view.Design/methodology/approach – The paper combines service theory with work of organizational theory and develops an analytical framework based on conceptual considerations. First empirical results are additionally used to support and illustrate the key outcomes.Findings – Combining the dimensions of integration power and intangible knowledge creation, the authors are able to specify generic types of contract logistics services. Thereby the authors deducted for every type the dist...

Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: In this paper, a comparative investigation of port performance between Western Europe and Eastern Asia was conducted and a comprehensive literature review was conducted in order to identify factors for port performance evaluation, and a large-scale questionnaire survey was employed in two port regions for comparative analysis.
Abstract: Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to report a comparative investigation of port performance between Western Europe and Eastern Asia and develop a strategy to improve their port performance accordingly.Design/methodology/approach – A comprehensive literature review is conducted in order to identify factors for port performance evaluation. A large‐scale questionnaire survey is employed in two port regions for comparative analysis.Findings – Descriptive techniques and t‐tests indicate that port performances in the case port regions are different from each other in some factors and that they share some common features in certain other factors. The findings reveal that the most critical differences between the case ports are government support, proximity, speed of cargo handling, safety and port technical infrastructure in descending order. The Western European ports need to improve on government support, reduce port charges, diversify port ownership and improve port connectivity, while the Eastern Asian ...

Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: In this article, the authors examine how the customer partnering behavior dimensions operational information exchange, planning, sharing of benefits and burdens, and extendedness influence goal achievement and goal exceedance at the interface between customer firms and their logistics service providers.
Abstract: Purpose The purpose of this paper is to examine how the customer partnering behavior dimensions operational information exchange, planning, sharing of benefits and burdens, and extendedness influence goal achievement and goal exceedance at the interface between customer firms and their logistics service providers.

Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: Adaptive choice modelling (ACM) as discussed by the authors is a research method that is useful for academic researchers and logistics/SCM managers to better understand the decision-making process of customers when selecti...
Abstract: Purpose – Much of the research conducted in logistics/SCM has focused on satisfaction/retention of customers. This has left a critical gap for managers: before customers can be satisfied and ultimately retained, a purchase choice of logistics services has to occur. To date, very little research has addressed how logistics customers make purchase choice decisions about logistics services. The purpose of this paper, using logistics research methods, is to introduce adaptive choice modelling (ACM) to address this gap and put forth a research method that is useful for academic researchers and logistics/SCM managers.Design/methodology/approach – This paper provides an overview of ACM, along with a discussion of its important research advantages, limitations, and practical applications. Additionally, an empirical demonstration of this research technique is provided to illustrate how academic researchers and logistics managers can use ACM to better understand the decision‐making process of customers when selecti...

Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: In this article, the authors present a parametric model to assess the impacts of information and communication technology (ICT) applications on company freight transportation processes (i.e. "company" perspective).
Abstract: Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to present a parametric model to assess the impacts of information and communication technology (ICT) applications on company freight transportation processes (i.e. “company” perspective). The aim is to support both internal monitoring procedures and the decision‐making process of ICT adoption, as well as increase managers' awareness of these solutions in improving their business. The model has been applied to inter‐modal terminal processes, which are particularly critical due to the high number of players involved and the need for integrating different modes of transport throughout the whole delivery process.Design/methodology/approach – The present study is part of a broader research on the topic of ICT adoption in the freight transportation industry. Based on the outcome of the previous stages of this research, the impact of ICT applications on inter‐modal processes has been modeled using an activity‐based costing approach. Interviews were conducted with both inte...

Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: In this paper, the use of a qualitative data analysis technique, the documentary method, in the development of knowledge in logistics is examined through an example of its application in a study of in-store logistics processes at six leading European retail stores.
Abstract: Purpose – This paper aims to examine the use of a qualitative data analysis technique, the documentary method, in the development of knowledge in logistics. The value of the method is illustrated through an example of its application in a study of in‐store logistics processes at six leading European retail stores.Design/methodology/approach – Extant literature is outlined regarding philosophical underpinnings of the documentary method and is followed by an explanation of the method and its application. Finally, an illustration is provided of its adaptation and use in a logistics research project.Findings – Drawing on a social constructionist approach, the documentary method can add to the development of logistics research by providing rich descriptions of actual practice, problems and issues in logistic processes – compared with the stated goals of such processes.Research limitations/implications – The documentary method is not suitable for all areas of logistics research and will need certain adaptations...

Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: Quantified relationships between supply chain design parameters and dynamic performance, including the bullwhip effect, are presented and two parameters in particular are shown to have a particularly strong impact on the order variance compared to other parameters.
Abstract: Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to quantify the effect of design parameters on the bullwhip effect and dynamic responses produced by a multi‐echelon supply chain with information sharing.Design/methodology/approach – Taguchi design of experiments and system dynamics simulation are used to quantify the impact of a supply chain's design parameters, including degree of information sharing, on its dynamic performance, and the interactions that occur as the parameter values are varied.Findings – Quantified relationships between supply chain design parameters and dynamic performance, including the bullwhip effect, are presented. Two parameters in particular, time to adjust inventory error and production lead time, are shown to have a particularly strong impact on the order variance compared to other parameters. However, there are several other significant findings.Research limitations/implications – Batching and capacity constraints are common causes of the bullwhip effect, but they are not included here...

Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: In this article, the authors investigate the potential of a new convenienceenhancing service at the interface between retailers and consumers: time-based delivery of parcels, which allows consumers to choose a preferred time slot for a parcel to be delivered.
Abstract: Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to investigate the potential of a new convenience‐enhancing service at the interface between retailers and consumers: time‐based delivery of parcels. The service allows consumers to choose a preferred time slot for a parcel to be delivered. This convenience‐enhancing logistics service may be attractive for consumers, retailers, and logistics service providers. The authors provide insights on consumers' willingness to pay (WTP) for this service and important drivers of its attractiveness.Design/methodology/approach – This paper measures and analyzes the attractiveness and antecedents, the WTP, and the overall revenue potential of this service based on an empirical analysis. A contingent valuation approach was adopted to measure the WTP and the level of usage.Findings – Research results suggest that the level of availability at home and the working hours per week are important antecedents of the perceived attractiveness of the service. Furthermore, consumers who percei...

Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: In this article, the authors show how a critical realist paradigm and its associated research methodology can contribute to supply chain research by providing explanations for specific supply-chain and logistics-related dynamic phenomena.
Abstract: Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to show how a critical realist paradigmatic stance and its associated research methodology can contribute to supply‐chain research by providing explanations for specific supply‐chain‐ and logistics‐related dynamic phenomena.Design/methodology/approach – Initially, the case for a critical realist research paradigm is made, and then a retroductive pluralistic research methodology is used for demonstrating its application. Starting from an observation in the distribution part of a seasonal goods supply chain, ethnographic‐like field research suggested deeper social structures as being responsible for the events observed. The operation of event‐generating mechanisms related to these structures was matched to existing behavioural theories using dynamic modelling and simulation.Findings – The adoption of the critical realist perspective and its pluralistic research methodology can bring into surface the root causes of, and explain, complex supply chain phenomena. In the pa...