How big data analytics use improves supply chain performance: considering the role of supply chain and information system strategies

Abstract

Purpose

Drawing on the dynamic capabilities theory, this paper proposes that supply chain (SC) strategies (i.e. the lean SC and agile SC strategies) will mediate the relationship between big data analytics (BDA) and SC performance. Furthermore, from the perspective of strategic alignment, this study hypothesizes that the effect of the SC strategy on SC performance is differently moderated by the information system (IS) strategy (i.e. the IS innovator and IS conservative strategies).

Design/methodology/approach

This study used 159 match-paired questionnaires collected from Chinese firms to empirically test the hypotheses.

Findings

Results show the positive direct and indirect impact of BDA on SC performance. Specifically, the lean and agile SC strategies mediate the relationship between BDA and SC performance. Furthermore, the results indicate that the IS innovator and IS conservative strategies differentially moderate the effect of the lean and agile SC strategies on SC performance. Specifically, the IS innovator strategy positively moderates the effect of the agile SC strategy on SC performance. By contrast, the IS conservative strategy positively moderates the effect of the lean SC strategy on SC performance but negatively moderates the effect of the agile SC strategy on SC performance.

Originality/value

This study provides a comprehensive understanding of how SC and IS strategies can help firms leverage BDA to improve SC performance.

Citation

Wei, S., Yin, J. and Chen, W. (2022), "How big data analytics use improves supply chain performance: considering the role of supply chain and information system strategies", The International Journal of Logistics Management, Vol. 33 No. 2, pp. 620-643. https://doi.org/10.1108/IJLM-06-2020-0255