Management systems and improving supply chain processes: Perspectives of focal companies and logistics service providers

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine the impact of implementing standardized management systems on processes related to competitiveness. The authors also want to better understand how these systems create value for a client in organizations co-developing supply chains operating in Eastern and Central Europe.

Design/methodology/approach

This is an empirical study utilizing a survey methodology with two groups of respondents, logistic service providers and focal companies. Data analysis was based on descriptive statistics and on analysis of variance (ANOVA) with organization type as a stratification factor. Deeper investigation of latent relationships between variables was performed with factor analysis with principal component analysis as the main method for factor extraction.

Findings

The research shows standardized management systems are useful in supply chain management (SCM) regardless of the role that the organization plays in the supply chain. However, the strength of their positive impact varies.

Practical implications

The results and new insights presented within this study should prove useful for organizations co-creating supply chains in Europe. Decision makers considering the implementation of guidelines for standardized management systems will find multiple benefits and innovative outcomes within supply chains when choosing to implement. For researchers, the results of this study fill a gap in this area of research on SCM and standardized management systems while providing a path for continued and emerging research.

Originality/value

The results obtained help to fill a gap in the literature regarding a lack of research in the context of Easter and Central Europe and contribute to the advancement of knowledge about the impact of standardized management systems on SCM that includes the importance of both environmental and social performance.

Citation

Zimon, D., Madzik, P. and Sroufe, R. (2020), "Management systems and improving supply chain processes: Perspectives of focal companies and logistics service providers", International Journal of Retail & Distribution Management, Vol. 48 No. 9, pp. 939-961. https://doi.org/10.1108/IJRDM-04-2019-0107