Supply chain quality management: An inter‐organizational learning perspective

Abstract

Purpose

This paper aims to develop a theoretical base for supply chain quality from the learning perspective. Through utilizing the relational view of inter‐organizational competitive advantage, the paper identifies learning‐driven practices that influence buyer‐supplier performance outcomes.

Design/methodology/approach

A review of the literature in quality management, supply chain management and strategic management is conducted to develop key practices associated with quality management in a supply chain environment.

Findings

The findings suggest that quality management facilitates cooperative learning and improves inter‐organizational learning processes. At the supply chain level, it enhances supply chain satisfaction and supply chain performance.

Originality/value

The study contributes to our understanding of quality management practices within a supply chain environment from an inter‐organizational learning perspective. It extends the concept of quality to the supply chain through focusing on key practices that influence the quality of supply chain relationships.

Citation

Mellat‐Parast, M. (2013), "Supply chain quality management: An inter‐organizational learning perspective", International Journal of Quality & Reliability Management, Vol. 30 No. 5, pp. 511-529. https://doi.org/10.1108/02656711311315495