Abstract
Recent trends toward outsourcing and global sourcing have created longer, more complex and more fragmented supply chains. In this research, we aim to instigate a theoretical development of multi-tier supply chain (MSC) management by adopting an inductive case study research design. Following a multiple case research design, we investigate three-tier supply chains to develop a theory of MSC management. Each of the investigated supply chains consists of a buyer, supplier and supplier's supplier. Based on the case studies, propositions are built concerning how MSCs operate. As an underlying methodology, we first conduct a within-case analysis and then expand that analysis to the cross-case context. The results show the impact that the dynamics of the MSC have on power balance, structure, interdependence and relationship stability inherent in MSCs.
Original language | English (US) |
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Pages (from-to) | 58-77 |
Number of pages | 20 |
Journal | Journal of Supply Chain Management |
Volume | 49 |
Issue number | 2 |
DOIs | |
State | Published - Apr 2013 |
Keywords
- Buyer/supplier relationships
- Case studies
- Inductive research
- Multi-tier supply chain management
- Networks
- Partnering
- Qualitative data analysis
- Supplier management
- Triadic relationships
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- Management Information Systems
- Economics, Econometrics and Finance (miscellaneous)
- Marketing