The Relationship Between Strategic Supply Chain Integration and Performance: A Meta-Analytic Evaluation and Implications for Supply Chain Management Research

Keywords

supply chain integration, firm performance, meta-analysis

Abstract

Although research evaluating the impact of supply chain integration on performance has advanced substantially in the last decade, inconsistency and considerable variability of empirical findings leave unanswered questions for both research and practice. Using a meta-analysis, we examine empirical studies to clarify the actual relationship, suggest new directions, and ultimately contribute toward the development of supply chain management theory. We focus on “strategic” supply chain integration rather than on functional or operational/tactical studies, which would weaken the practical value of the analysis and findings. To ascertain focus and homogeneity of the sample, we adopt a rigorous search protocol and sample construction. We find that integration–performance relationships are complex and nuanced such that integration should not be universally viewed as improving performance. We identify relationships that are more generalizable and also those that need additional scrutiny. Finally, we discuss the implications of our findings and provide directions for future research.

Original Publication Citation

"Mackelprang, A.W., Robinson, J., Bernardes, E. and Webb, G. S. (2014) ""The Relationship Between Supply Chain Integration and Performance: A Meta- Analytic Evaluation and Implications for Supply Chain Management Research"", Journal of Business Logistics March 2014, 35(1): 71-96."

Document Type

Peer-Reviewed Article

Publication Date

2014

Publisher

Journal of Business Logistics

Language

English

College

Marriott School of Business

Department

Marketing

University Standing at Time of Publication

Associate Professor

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