Relationship between the maturity of supply chain process management and the organisational life cycle

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the relationship between the maturity level of supply chain process management (SCPM) and the company’s organisational life cycle (OLC).

Based on a theoretical review, a questionnaire was developed to measure the maturity level of SCPM and the OLC. Data from 228 companies operating in Brazil were collected to assess the association between variables by using correspondence analysis technique.

Among the key findings, evidences of a relationship between the maturity level of SCPM and the company’s OLC could be highlighted. In addition, it was found that the maturity level of SCPM has no significant relationship with the age or size of a company but it is related to the capabilities inherent to the SCPM.

Measurement of SCPM and the OLC was based on the managers’ perceptions about the actual configuration of their firms. Accordingly, there is a certain level of subjectivity inherent to those models. The study is valid for companies operating in Brazil and might not be applicable for other countries.

This study increases awareness about the influence of organisational issues, such as the decision model, power hierarchy or governance structure, in the development of SCPM maturity. Such issues must be addressed to develop SCPM.

Management and control of organisational issues might help to develop the maturity of SCPM, so the service level of companies, in order to deliver high quality services to society. Still, further research is required in the social area.

The paper tried to analyse the relationship of two well established models where this link was overlooked in the past. It was not found in literature similar investigation.