Date of Conferral
2022
Degree
Doctor of Business Administration (D.B.A.)
School
Information Systems and Technology
Advisor
Christopher G. Beehner
Abstract
Supply chain inflexibility results in reduced efficiency and profitability. Without supply chain flexibility, supply chain managers in manufacturing firms risk the loss of competitive advantage due to reduced efficiency and profitability. Grounded in business process engineering conceptual framework, the purpose of this qualitative multiple case study was to explore strategies supply chain leaders in manufacturing organizations use to achieve supply chain flexibility. The participants were five supply chain leaders in the manufacturing industry in the midwestern United States and successfully implemented innovative solutions to achieve supply chain flexibility. Data were collected using semistructured interviews and a review of company documents and reports related to supply chain flexibility. Using Yin’s five-step thematic analysis, five themes were identified: use of technology, financial considerations, cross-functional collaboration, change management, and improving the customer experience. A key recommendation is for supply chain managers to engage employees and stakeholders in implementing innovations to achieve supply chain flexibility. The implications for positive social change include the potential to reduce the organization’s carbon footprint and increase its product quality, resulting in less waste and pollution in the communities and regions where the manufacturers operate.
Recommended Citation
Szukalowski III, Matthew J., "Strategies for Catalyzing Supply Chain Innovation in Midsized Manufacturing Firms" (2022). Walden Dissertations and Doctoral Studies. 14538.
https://scholarworks.waldenu.edu/dissertations/14538
