Determining the value of information for different partners in the supply chain

Abstract

Purpose

The paper aims to define the most beneficial types of information within a supply chain and their level of value for different partners in the supply chain. A secondary objective of this study is to compare the literature focus with the practitioners' perception concerning the value adding information types and their value level in the supply chains.

Design/methodology/approach

In this study, by reviewing published papers and textbooks on functionality and the value of information in supply chains, the most important types of information beneficial for the different partners of the supply chain depending on their position are identified. The value levels are quantified for the different partners through the supply chain by interviews with practitioners in different segments of the chains. A comparison between values of significant information types in the supply chains, concluded from the literature and the practitioners' interviews, is presented in this paper.

Findings

The study indicates the warehouse operations information as the most valuable information type from the practitioner's perspective. Also the result of this paper indicates increasing value of information further down the supply chain.

Practical implications

The result of this study could be applied for prioritizing the need for different information types in designing a supply chain.

Originality/value

This paper adds to the literature on the value of information and supply chain information by identifying and categorizing different types of information which are made available to create value for different partners in the supply chain. Also, this study identifies the benefit share of different supply chain partners from information. A comparison of the ideas of the literature and practitioner's on value of information is shown in this study.

Citation

Lumsden, K. and Mirzabeiki, V. (2008), "Determining the value of information for different partners in the supply chain", International Journal of Physical Distribution & Logistics Management, Vol. 38 No. 9, pp. 659-673. https://doi.org/10.1108/09600030810925953