Knowledge management enterprise and RFID systems: Adoption to supply chain performance

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to explore the investment of supply chain technology-to-performance path relationship through the lens of the resource-based view (RBV) as illuminated by the organizational learning literature.

Design/methodology/approach

This study surveyed top-level managers who are registered members of the Council of Supply Chain Management Professionals.

Findings

Using factor analysis and OLS regression on 300+ supply chain professionals, this study confirms that investments in both enterprise- and radio frequency identification (RFID)-specific knowledge management (KM) tools yield substantial benefits to the firm’s knowledge management system (KMS) which is the dependent path to higher supply chain performance.

Research limitations/implications

This sample was taken with supply chain professionals who are more likely to value supply chain investments as part of their responsibility.

Practical implications

The authors believe that the empirical study on supply chain investment from a resource-based perspective will contribute to the ongoing RBV theoretical discussions while providing insights for practitioners in the realm of supply chain investment.

Originality/value

Every investment in supply technology should be driven by an understanding of the inextricably inter-connectedness of knowledge management capabilities and the firm’s ability to effectively implement its corporate strategies. By emphasizing the inter-connection between knowledge management and supply chain technology investments, firms improve their potential for developing a competitive advantage.

Citation

Reyes, P.M., Worthington, W.J. and Collins, J.D. (2015), "Knowledge management enterprise and RFID systems: Adoption to supply chain performance", Management Research Review, Vol. 38 No. 1, pp. 44-66. https://doi.org/10.1108/MRR-01-2013-0011