Supply Chain Integration: Barriers and Driving Forces in an Action Research-Based Industry Intervention

Abstract

The theoretical benefits of integrated supply chains are well documented, however, the concept remains difficult to operationalize. This paper describes an industry intervention-the transformation of an industry via the standardization of technology and processes. The action research- based case study presents an industry standard-papiNet-and shows how the U.S. paper industry worked to promote, accept, and develop the standard. The case also discusses the driving forces and barriers of integration and implementation.

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Dag Naslund

Dag Naslund is an associate professor of process management at the Coggin College of Business, University of North Florida. He earned his PhD in process and supply chain management from the Lund Institute of Technology, Lund University, Sweden. Dr. Naslund has extensive professional and research experience in the areas of process management including process mapping, process analysis, improvements, and process-based performance measurement systems. Dr. Naslund also has a specific interest in philosophy of science and research methods. Dr. Naslund is the associate director of the Paper and Plastics Education and Research (PAPER) Institute at the University of North Florida. His research has been published in Journal of Business Logistics, International Journal of Physical Distribution and Logistics Management, Transportation Journal, Business Process Management Journal, Decision Sciences Journal of Innovative Education, and The Learning Organization, among others.

Steven A. Williamson

Steven A. Williamson is an associate professor of strategic management in the Coggin College of Business at the University of North Florida and he directs the university’s PAPER Institute. He earned a doctorate in Business Administration from the University of Memphis. Dr. Williamson’s research is focused on strategy development and implementation, quality systems implementation, and international entrepreneurship, and his research has been published in International Business: Research, Teaching and Practice, International Review of Retail, Distribution and Consumer Research, International Journal of Commerce and Management, and International Journal of Strategic Business. He is a recognized expert in organizational management and is often asked to assume the role of guest speaker by civic and professional organizations. Dr. Williamson also is the principal of Management Development Incorporated, a management-consulting firm.