Supply Chain Management

This book explains supply chain management (SCM) using the strategy–structure–process–performance (SSPP) framework. Utilizing this well-known framework of contingency theory in the areas of strategic management and organizational design, SCM is firmly positioned among management theories. The author specifically proposes a theoretical foundation of SCM that will be relevant to such areas as operations management, logistics management, purchasing management, and marketing.

Both the static and dynamic sides of SCM are reported. On the static side, supply chain strategies are divided into three patterns: efficiency-oriented, responsiveness-oriented, and the hybrid efficiency- and responsiveness-oriented pattern. For each strategy, suitable internal and external supply chain structures and processes are proposed. On the dynamic side, the big issue is to overcome performance trade-offs. Based on theories of organizational change, process change, and dynamic capabilities, the bookpresents a model of supply chain process change. On structure, the focus is on the role of an SCM steering department.

Illustrative cases are included from such diverse industries as automobiles (Toyota and Nissan ), personal computers (Fujitsu), office equipment (Ricoh), air-conditioning (Daikin), tobacco (Japan Tobacco), chemicals and cosmetics (Kao), and casual fashion (Fast Retailing and Inditex).The strategy and organization of SCM is systematically presented on the basis of the SSPP framework.

In particular, the relationships among three management elements—strategy, structure, and process—can be identified in an SCM context. From many of the cases contained in this volume, there emerges an understanding of how to analyze the success and failure factors of SCM using the SSPP framework. In addition, the reader sees not only the static side SCM such as process operation but also its dynamic side such as process innovation and process improvement.

Mikihisa Nakano was born in Yamaguchi Prefecture, Japan, in 1967 and grew up in Osaka Prefecture. He graduated from Osaka University with a bachelor’s degree in Engineering Science. Prior to starting his academic career, he served as a researcher of the Mitsubishi Research Institute, which is a think-tank, for almost ten years. He also served as marketing research staff of Fast Retailing with its main brand, UNIQLO, which is the third largest apparel company in the world. While working at these companies, he earned an MBA and a Ph.D. in business administration from Kobe University. At present, he serves as a professor at the Faculty of Business Administration of Kyoto Sangyo University.

His research work has focused on supply chain management, especially the mechanisms of internal and external integration in supply chains and the impact on performance. He has published articles in several journals, including International Journal of Logistics Management, International Journal of Logistics: Research and Applications, International Journal of Operations & Production Management, International Journal of Physical Distribution & Logistics Management, and International Journal of Production Economics.