Improving transport performance in supply networks: effects of (non)overlapping network horizons
Journal article, 2021
are embedded in a transport service triad, which, in turn, is embedded in the wider supply network.
Design/methodology/approach – The theoretical framing originates from the IMP approach with a specific focus on the concept network horizon,
and literature on triads. The study is explorative and applies a qualitative design and a case study approach to illustrate how three actors engage in
a change initiative to improve transport performance.
Findings – The paper concludes that it is crucial to get counterparts aware of the importance of expanding and defining their network horizons for a
certain change initiative. Interaction among actors is important to create awareness and expand its own as well as others’ network horizons for a certain
change. Three generic facets are proposed: overlapping network horizons, partly overlapping network horizons and non-overlapping network horizons.
Practical implications – The framework offers a tool to managers in terms of the concept of network horizon that can help to understand the
challenges when dealing with change in supply networks and to understand where to deploy resources to cope with change.
Originality/value – This study adds to the literature by explicating facets of the concept of network horizon, especially when firms are faced with a
change, how they are affected by this change and how they can cope with the related challenges.
Supply network
Triad
Performance
Network horizon
Transport
Author
Victor Eriksson
Chalmers, Technology Management and Economics, Supply and Operations Management
Kajsa Hulthén
Chalmers, Technology Management and Economics, Supply and Operations Management
Ann-Charlott Pedersen
Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU)
Journal of Business and Industrial Marketing
0885-8624 (ISSN)
Vol. 36 10 1767-1779Subject Categories
Other Mechanical Engineering
Transport Systems and Logistics
Areas of Advance
Transport
DOI
10.1108/JBIM-01-2020-0062