Information sharing and supply chain performance: the role of connectivity and willingness

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to understand how information technology (IT) is used to enhance supply chain performance.

Design/methodology/approach

A large‐scale survey and semi‐structured interviews were used to collect industry data.

Findings

Two distinct dimensions to information sharing – connectivity and willingness – are identified and analyzed. Both dimensions are found to impact operational performance and to be critical to the development of a real information sharing capability. However, many companies are found to have placed most of their emphasis on connectivity, often overlooking the willingness construct. As a result, information sharing seldom delivers on its promise to enable the creation of the cohesive supply chain team.

Research limitations

Despite the extensive data collection, the research represents a snapshot of practice. Replication from a longitudinal perspective would help define how IT is evolving to enable supply chain management.

Practical implications

A roadmap is presented to help guide IT development and investment decisions.

Originality/value

The research presents a two‐by‐two matrix to help managers and academics understand the related nature of connectivity and willingness. A roadmap is presented to help guide IT development and investment decisions.

Citation

Fawcett, S.E., Osterhaus, P., Magnan, G.M., Brau, J.C. and McCarter, M.W. (2007), "Information sharing and supply chain performance: the role of connectivity and willingness", Supply Chain Management, Vol. 12 No. 5, pp. 358-368. https://doi.org/10.1108/13598540710776935