Lean Production implementation, Cloud-Supported Logistics and Supply Chain Integration: interrelationships and effects on business performance

Abstract

Purpose

With support from the dynamic capabilities theory, this paper examines the role of Cloud Computing technology use in logistics (Cloud-Supported Logistics) and its effect on business results in Lean manufacturing management (Lean Production implementation) and Supply Chain Integration contexts.

Design/methodology/approach

Using the survey method, a random sample of 260 companies in intermediate positions in their supply chains was gathered from a population of 1,717 Spanish companies and used to test five hypotheses. The data were collected by telephone survey using a computerised system with a response rate of 15.6% (260 valid questionnaires). Structural equation modelling was used to test the five proposed hypotheses.

Findings

The findings indicate that Cloud-Supported Logistics use plays an important role in achieving better business results in Lean Production environments. Lean Production has been found to have both a direct effect and an even more powerful indirect effect on performance through the Cloud-Supported Logistics and Supply Chain Integration that these technologies produce. Supply Chain Integration is also found to have a mediating effect in the Cloud-Supported Logistics–performance relationship.

Originality/value

This study is valuable for academics and practitioners as it provides evidence of the relevant role played by Cloud-Supported Logistics in Lean Production implementation contexts. Cloud-Supported Logistics and Lean Production are strategically and operationally linked and their joint use results in Supply Chain Integration and better business performance.

Citation

Novais, L., Maqueira Marín, J.M. and Moyano-Fuentes, J. (2020), "Lean Production implementation, Cloud-Supported Logistics and Supply Chain Integration: interrelationships and effects on business performance", The International Journal of Logistics Management, Vol. 31 No. 3, pp. 629-663. https://doi.org/10.1108/IJLM-02-2019-0052