DeYu Zhong and Ki-Hyun Um
This study aims to (1) validate the effectiveness of customer integration in enhancing firms’ green innovation and (2) explore the respective impacts of regulatory pressure and…
Abstract
Purpose
This study aims to (1) validate the effectiveness of customer integration in enhancing firms’ green innovation and (2) explore the respective impacts of regulatory pressure and market changes on the effectiveness of integration mechanisms, thereby identifying the optimal integration outcomes for firms across different contexts.
Design/methodology/approach
Utilizing an integrated theoretical framework based on the extended resource-based view (ERBV) and contingency theory, this study examines the complex interactions among customer integration, regulatory pressure, market changes and green innovation. The analysis is based on a dataset of 293 responses from manufacturing firms in mainland China. Hierarchical regression analysis was employed to rigorously test the proposed hypotheses.
Findings
The key outcomes of this research are summarized in two major findings: (1) integrating customers into a firm’s processes meaningfully boosts green innovation initiatives and (2) market dynamics have been found to amplify the positive impact of customer integration on green innovation, whereas regulatory pressure significantly and negatively moderates this relationship.
Originality/value
This study uniquely integrates multiple theoretical perspectives, providing a richer understanding of how various contextual factors influence the relationship between customer integration and green innovation. These findings contribute original insights to the literature, highlighting how different contextual factors interact with customer integration and offering practical insights for firms to make strategic decisions in diverse contexts.
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The study aims to examine the impact of three types of supply chain integration (SCI) on supply chain flexibility (SCF), investigate the impact of SCF on supply chain performance…
Abstract
Purpose
The study aims to examine the impact of three types of supply chain integration (SCI) on supply chain flexibility (SCF), investigate the impact of SCF on supply chain performance (SCP) and analyse the indirect impact of SCI on SCP by considering the mediating role of SCF within the manufacturing sector of Jordan.
Design/methodology/approach
This study used a quantitative approach to validate the study model. An online self-completed questionnaire was used to gather data from 219 participants from managers in various Jordanian manufacturing firms. SmartPLS software was used to perform structural equation modelling to test the formulated hypotheses.
Findings
Based on the findings of the study, firms in Jordan's manufacturing sector would benefit from developing an integrative and flexible supply chain to boost SCP in the present volatile, uncertain, complex and speculative market. In addition, SCP was significantly influenced by investments in supply chain management practices related to SCI and SCF. Moreover, SCF significantly moderated the relationship between SCI and SCP. Thus, SCI and SCF assisted firms in reaching their highest potential performance through increased productivity, decreased expenses and increased satisfaction of their customers.
Research limitations/implications
The study employed a cross-sectional design using SCF as a single construct. Future research should look into the specific type of SCFs that have an immense effect on SCP and how these types are affected by the three types of SCI. Furthermore, future research ought to employ probability sampling techniques to improve the generalizability of results or using a longitudinal data-collection design. Finally, additional research should be conducted to validate the findings of this study by replicating it in other specific industries or countries.
Originality/value
The study fills an identified gap based on previous studies by exploring the linkages between SCI, SCF and SCP in the context of manufacturing sector. Moreover, based on the relational view theory, the study proposed an assessment mechanism for SCP for firms based on the link between three types of SCI and SCF.
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Giada Salvietti, Marco Ieva and Cristina Ziliani
This study aims to advance knowledge of channel integration, a key feature of omnichannel retailing, by investigating the role of specific touchpoints in delivering a consistent…
Abstract
Purpose
This study aims to advance knowledge of channel integration, a key feature of omnichannel retailing, by investigating the role of specific touchpoints in delivering a consistent integration perception.
Design/methodology/approach
Quantitative methods were adopted, by testing a model built on the stimulus-organism-response framework. Data collection used a panel survey across the grocery and fashion sectors (1,031 and 739 consumers, respectively). An ordinary least squares regression with clustered standard errors was conducted, combined with a multiple correspondence analysis, followed by a mediation analysis.
Findings
This study identifies touchpoints relevant for channel integration perception and shows that they differ across product category and customer types (first time vs repeat customers). Furthermore, it pinpoints touchpoints that are directly and indirectly related to patronage intention, thereby exposing the mediating role of channel integration. By drawing on categorization theory, it discusses individual touchpoints’ contribution to channel integration perception, at general level and on different customer targets.
Practical implications
This study offers a new vision of channel integration perception that highlights touchpoints’ role. It contributes to the established channel integration quality framework by showing that integrated information is concerned not only with consistency of information across channels but also with the specific touchpoints through which such information is disseminated.
Originality/value
This study provides directly actionable managerial implications, by through strategic insights for customer journey and customer experience design/redesign and by offering a practical methodology for retailers to identify the touchpoints they can leverage to improve their customers’ channel integration perceptions – with consequences for patronage intention.
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The purpose of this research is to determine how supply chain management (SCM) might be less affected by COVID-19 by using innovative technologies such as the Internet of Things…
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this research is to determine how supply chain management (SCM) might be less affected by COVID-19 by using innovative technologies such as the Internet of Things (IoT), eco-friendly corporate practices and other digital advancements. It strongly emphasizes the use of technology to improve supply networks’ and Omani firms’ performance.
Design/methodology/approach
Using a mixed-methods research strategy, this study integrates both qualitative and quantitative approaches. It involves a survey and interviews with supply chain and IT managers from various industries in Oman to gather data and evaluate the impact of technology on SCM.
Findings
This study finds that IoT capabilities, smart technologies (STs) and green practices significantly mitigate COVID-19 impacts on SCM. The performance of the supply chain and the business are both improved by these technologies’ positive effects on integrating various supply chain elements, such as suppliers, internal processes and customer relations.
Research limitations/implications
The main constraint of this study is its concentration on businesses in Oman, potentially restricting the applicability of its findings to broader contexts. Future studies could investigate similar frameworks across various geographic and industry settings.
Practical implications
The findings suggest that incorporating STs into SCM is crucial for enhancing operational efficiency and resilience against disruptions such as COVID-19. This offers valuable insights for managers and policymakers in adopting technology-driven strategies for SCM.
Social implications
This study highlights the significant role of technology in sustaining supply chains during pandemics, thereby supporting economic stability and societal well-being. It underscores the importance of technological advancements in maintaining supply chain continuity in challenging times.
Originality/value
By empirically examining the effect of emerging technologies on enhancing SCM in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic, specifically in the Oman market, this research makes a unique contribution to the body of knowledge.
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Marya Tabassum, Muhammad Mustafa Raziq, John Lewis Rice, Felipe Mendes Borini and Anees Wajid
Taking a co-creation perspective and integrating knowledge-based and resource-based perspectives, the authors examine the role of customer participation in organizational…
Abstract
Purpose
Taking a co-creation perspective and integrating knowledge-based and resource-based perspectives, the authors examine the role of customer participation in organizational performance and project success. The authors also investigate the mediating role of knowledge integration and the moderating role of requirement risk for these relationships in uncertain contexts.
Design/methodology/approach
The authors undertook two studies. The first study was carried out in 2018 in which the authors drew on survey data from 150 information technology (IT) sector employees and examined the mediating role of knowledge integration in the relationship of customer participation with organizational performance and project success. In the second study undertaken in 2020, the authors drew on data from 92 IT and telecom sector employees and examined the moderating role of requirement risk in the relationship between customer participation and knowledge integration. Study 2 was conducted during the COVID-19 pandemic when employees were largely working from home and were more sensitive to risks and uncertainty about the scope and system requirements. Both studies were survey-based, and analysis was carried out using structural equation modeling.
Findings
The authors’ two-study examination indicated that knowledge integration positively mediates the relationship of customer participation with organizational performance and project success during the co-creation process. Furthermore, the authors demonstrate that when requirement risks are high, customer participation relationship with knowledge integration is weaker.
Originality/value
The authors show that integrating customer knowledge is critical to project success and organizational performance. By identifying risk uncertainties and environmental contingencies, the authors highlight the constraints of customer participation for knowledge integration, organizational performance and project success. The authors provide some key study findings based on survey data obtained from project teams during two periods (normal and pandemic).
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While existing literature extensively explores manufacturing firms expanding into services, little is known about the modes of servitisation, the means by which they carry it out…
Abstract
Purpose
While existing literature extensively explores manufacturing firms expanding into services, little is known about the modes of servitisation, the means by which they carry it out. This paper concentrates on acquisitions as a mode of servitisation. Post-acquisition integration is when the potential of an acquisition is realised. The paper therefore aims to categorise types of integrations following the acquisition of servitised firms and discusses their consequences for servitisation.
Design/methodology/approach
The empirical part of the paper is based on two case studies, each involving the acquisition of servitised firms. Both acquirers changed their integration approach over time.
Findings
The paper conceptualises three types of integrations: rhetorical, insulated and transformative integrations, indicating whether and how the acquirer becomes servitised following the integration. These highlight the analysis of integration based on business models and customer orientation in relation to servitisation.
Originality/value
This paper contributes to research on servitisation by emphasising acquisitions as a mode of servitisation and conceptualising three integration types related to business models and customer orientations. Furthermore, the paper highlights how an acquirer's servitisation leads to new offerings targeting new customers, as opposed to strengthening existing relationships.
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Summer K. Mohamed, Sandra Haddad and Mahmoud Barakat
Due to the rapid increase in environmental degradation and depletion of natural resources, there has been a recent shift in global focus from economic concerns to environmental…
Abstract
Purpose
Due to the rapid increase in environmental degradation and depletion of natural resources, there has been a recent shift in global focus from economic concerns to environmental ones. The purpose of this research is to examine the relevant literature on the use of blockchain technology to promote environmental sustainability through customer integration.
Design/methodology/approach
The proposed framework is based on the theoretical lens of systems theory (ST) and knowledge-based view (KBV) theory, and is developed by conducting a systematic literature review of 51 articles, (16) from 2022, (17) from 2021, (10) 2020, (5) 2019, (2) 2018 and (1) from 2017 on blockchain technology (BCT), environmental supply chain performance (ESCP) and customer integration.
Findings
Three main propositions are formulated and demonstrated using the developed framework, which shows that BCT has the potential to revolutionize the supply chain from an environmental sustainability perspective through facilitating waste management, reduction of energy consumption and reduction of carbon emissions/pollution. The technology will not only enhance the environmental sustainability but also facilitate customer integration through resolving transparency issues, protecting data/enhancing security, database decentralization, promoting trust and immutability.
Originality/value
The effects of blockchain on supply chain performance has been studied in the past; however, no studies were found which shed light on how BCT can affect ESCP through the mediation of customer integration.
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Beyza Keskin and Mustafa Cahit Ungan
The aim of this study is to identify the factors affecting supply chain responsiveness. Additionally, it investigates the relationships between supply chain responsiveness…
Abstract
Purpose
The aim of this study is to identify the factors affecting supply chain responsiveness. Additionally, it investigates the relationships between supply chain responsiveness, customer satisfaction and competitive power.
Design/methodology/approach
A quantitative method was adopted. Data were collected from 290 companies operating in Turkey and tested with structural equation modeling.
Findings
The results show that supply chain responsiveness is related to continuous process improvement, supplier integration and environmental uncertainty but not to customer integration. The findings also present relationships between supply chain responsiveness, customer satisfaction and competitive power.
Practical implications
The findings indicate that decision-makers should invest in continuous process improvement and supplier integration. They also need to understand that their supply chain responsiveness depends on the environmental dynamism of their sectors, and they must direct their efforts accordingly. Finally, decision-makers wishing high customer satisfaction and competitive power must value supply chain responsiveness and take necessary actions to achieve it.
Originality/value
A literature review for this study indicated very limited empirical evidence of the relationship between continuous process improvement, supplier integration, customer integration, environmental uncertainty and supply chain responsiveness. Similarly, there was a quest for more research on the relationships between supply chain responsiveness, customer satisfaction and competitive power. This work will enhance the literature by adding knowledge in these areas.
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John Agyekum Addae, Kwabena Gyasi Boakye, George Oppong Appiagyei Ampong, Hod Anyigba, Mohammed Majeed, Aidatu Abubakari and Kwame Simpe Ofori
The study's goal is to assess the influence of multichannel integration quality on perceived value, service convenience and service experience in a multichannel banking context…
Abstract
Purpose
The study's goal is to assess the influence of multichannel integration quality on perceived value, service convenience and service experience in a multichannel banking context. Furthermore, the study investigated the impact of perceived value, service convenience and service experience on positive electronic word of mouth (e-WoM).
Design/methodology/approach
Data were collected from 527 respondents using online surveys distributed on various social media platforms in Ghana. The data were analysed using the partial least squares approach to structural equation modelling.
Findings
The results showed that multichannel integration quality influences consumers' perceptions of value and service experience favourably. It also showed that the two factors influencing service convenience were service experience and perceived value. Further, the research revealed a significant relationship between positive electronic word of mouth and perceived value, service convenience and service experience.
Practical implications
The study adds to the existing body of knowledge on multichannel integration by empirically testing the relationship between multichannel integration quality and consumer response in the context of multichannel banking.
Originality/value
The study is one of a few that provide important insights into the growing body of literature on multichannel integration quality from the consumers' perspective. The study further develops a model that explicates the relationship between multichannel integration quality, perceived value, service convenience and e-WoM.
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Abstract
Purpose
With the development of digitalization and interconnection, there is a growing need for enterprise customers to ensure the compatibility of the third-party components they are using in the manufacturing process, thus raising the integration requirements for the Industrial Internet platform and its third-party developers. Therefore, our study investigates the optimal integration decision of the Industrial Internet platform while considering its access price, the integration cost, and the net utility derived by enterprise customers from the third-party components.
Design/methodology/approach
We model a two-sided Industrial Internet platform that connects customers on the demand side to the developers on the supply side. We then explore the integration decision of the Industrial Internet platform and its important factors by solving the optimal profit function.
Findings
First, despite the high integration cost of third-party developers, the platform still chooses to integrate when enterprise customers derive high utility from the third-party components. Second, due to the compatibility effect, charging the enterprise customers a higher price may reduce the platform profits when these customers derive low utility from the third-party components. Third, the platform profits will increase along with the integration cost of third-party developers when it is low in the case where enterprise customers derive low utility from third-party components.
Originality/value
Our findings offer insightful takeaways for the Industrial Internet platform when making integration decisions.