Service-dominant logic and supply chain management: are we there yet?

Abstract

Purpose

Research suggests that service-dominant logic (SDL) is well suited to support supply chain management (SCM) research and practice. Qualitative research has shown that SDL is particularly consistent with an outcome-based supply chain strategy known as performance-based logistics (PBL). The purpose of this paper is to extend theory and practice by exploring the degree to which SDL is utilized in practice. Specifically, PBL is examined for consistency with the underlying fundamental premises (FPs) of SDL. In doing so, this paper answers the positive question, “what exists”, at the intersection of SDL and SCM.

Design/methodology/approach

This study employs a mixed methodological approach. First, the FPs of SDL are operationalized using the language of PBL. The PBL FPs are tested quantitatively through an online survey of 52 supply chain PBL experts. A qualitative analysis is conducted using comments associated with each premise.

Findings

The survey results suggest that PBL is consistent with SDL. These results indicate that PBL is a supply chain context of SDL.

Originality/value

This is one of the first works to examine the degree to which SDL concepts are being utilized in practice.

Citation

Wittmann, C.M., Nowicki, D.R., Pohlen, T.L. and Randall, W.S. (2014), "Service-dominant logic and supply chain management: are we there yet?", International Journal of Physical Distribution & Logistics Management, Vol. 44 No. 1/2, pp. 113-131. https://doi.org/10.1108/IJPDLM-11-2012-0331