The effects of process development and information technology on time-based supply chain performance

Abstract

In recent years, in parallel with the advances in information technology and process development approaches, the importance of the supply chain as an integrated manufacturing and distribution processes which transforms raw materials into the final products and deliver them to the customers is increased. So, today, effective and efficient supply chains accepted as a key strategic factor to reach some fundamental aims of the businesses such as higher customer service, increased efficiency and developed competitiveness. Therefore, the purpose of the current study is to reveal the individual and cumulative effects of the information technology and process development activities on time-based supply chain performance which is a key strategic component of the business competitiveness. To provide a theoretical framework hypotheses and a questionnaire are developed based on the literature. To reach this purpose, furniture industrial cluster in Kayseri region is selected as research universe. Based on the data of the KAYSO, 200 questionnaires are delivered to the companies operating in the furniture industry. Analyses are made on the database which is composed 108 returned clear questionnaires. Direct and the cumulative positive effects of the information technology and process development activities on time-based supply chain performance are evaluated. (C) 2014 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Ltd.