Benefits of IT in supply chain management: an explorative study of progressive companies
International Journal of Physical Distribution & Logistics Management
ISSN: 0960-0035
Article publication date: 1 February 2005
Abstract
Purpose
To provide empirical evidence of benefits from IT in supply chain management.
Design/methodology/approach
Data in this qualitative study were collected through multiple enquiries. SCM consultant interviews gave an understanding of the current state of practice. A survey of 48 progressive companies was conducted to identify what IT solutions they have implemented in SCM. This was followed by 18 in‐depth case studies to identify the mechanisms for achieving benefits of IT in SCM.
Findings
Based on the empirical studies five propositions are presented on the use and benefits of IT. First, successful companies have developed focused e‐business solutions for improving customer service elements that are most important in their business. Second, improved efficiency allows company personnel to focus more on critical business activities. Third, the use of e‐business solutions improves information quality. Fourth, e‐business solutions support planning collaboration and improved agility of the supply network. Finally, to gain strategic benefits, the use of IT has to be coupled with process redesign.
Research limitations/implications
The sample of companies used in the study was selected by expert assessment and is biased towards companies willing to discuss and share results openly. Additionally, the focus of the paper was on single companies and not on the entire supply network. However, the findings of this study present an opportunity to further develop understanding of the underlying mechanisms of how IT investments benefit supply chain management.
Originality/value
The paper fulfils an identified need for in‐depth case studies that analyze the possible mechanisms behind the practical benefits of IT in supply chain management.
Keywords
Citation
Auramo, J., Kauremaa, J. and Tanskanen, K. (2005), "Benefits of IT in supply chain management: an explorative study of progressive companies", International Journal of Physical Distribution & Logistics Management, Vol. 35 No. 2, pp. 82-100. https://doi.org/10.1108/09600030510590282
Publisher
:Emerald Group Publishing Limited
Copyright © 2005, Emerald Group Publishing Limited