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Towards a multi‐dimensional approach to supply management: a comparative case study

Carlos Brito (Faculty of Economics, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal)
Catarina Roseira (Faculty of Economics, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal)

Journal of Business & Industrial Marketing

ISSN: 0885-8624

Article publication date: 6 February 2007

1084

Abstract

Purpose

The article aims at contributing to a better understanding of the interdependence between supply management and the strategic position of the buying firm.

Design/methodology/approach

The research follows a qualitative analysis of two cases: Adira, a family‐owned manufacturer of machinery to cut steel, and Vulcano, a manufacturer of instantaneous house gas water‐heaters and boilers.

Findings

The article finds that supply management decisions depend not only on the network position of the buying firm, but also on the network vision of its managers.

Research limitations/implications

The study is based on two contrasting cases. Further research should develop and test the findings by using other cases and methodological approaches more quantitative in nature.

Practical implications

The article has three major practical implications: supply management should integrate three levels of decisions: dyadic, portfolio and network decisions; supply management does not depend solely on firms' strategic positioning and strategies, but also on managers' network theory about the role and capabilities of suppliers; and “no strategy” can also be a strategy.

Originality/value

The study was conducted on the basis of a multi‐dimensional model that integrates three levels of analysis: dyadic, portfolio and network.

Keywords

Citation

Brito, C. and Roseira, C. (2007), "Towards a multi‐dimensional approach to supply management: a comparative case study", Journal of Business & Industrial Marketing, Vol. 22 No. 1, pp. 72-79. https://doi.org/10.1108/08858620710722842

Publisher

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Emerald Group Publishing Limited

Copyright © 2007, Emerald Group Publishing Limited

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