Research methodologies in supply chain management: what do we know?

Halldorsson, A. and Arlbjørn, J.S. (2005) Research methodologies in supply chain management: what do we know? In, Kotzab, H., Seuring, S., Muller, M. and Reiner, G. (eds.) Research Methodologies in Supply Chain Management. Berlin, Germany. Physica-Verlag, pp. 107-122. (doi:10.1007/3-7908-1636-1).

Abstract

Investigates the methodology applied in supply chain management (SCM) research published in three academic journals from 1997 to 2004. The objective is to analyze and discuss by what research methods our current knowledge of SCM has been generated. 71 papers are identified as containing SCM. Empirical evidence is limited to approximately half of the articles, share of which is frequently generated by quantitative approaches. Conceptual work is weak on discussing fundamental assumptions of SCM (theory, methodology, philosophy of science). Theoretical foundations from a philosophy of science perspective are still unquestioned. Actor and level of analysis are primarily the manufacturing company and a supply chain perspective albeit the empirical evidence usually resides in the particular, focal company. Applications of non-logistics theories or concepts are not navigated by a more fundamental discussion of methodology.

This record has no associated files available for download.

Contributors

Download statistics