Abstract
Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to develop a benchmarking framework for the analysis of the supply network configuration of companies and exemplifies its applications in the Indian automotive sector.
Design/methodology/approach – We combine elements of relationship and network theories from different research streams to develop a three level supply network configuration benchmarking framework including a dyadic, supply chain and network perspective. The analysis of two case companies shows the differences of supply networks in emerging markets depending on strategies and institutional context.
Findings – Our framework works well with the two case studies presented. A major player in the Indian automotive industry is benchmarked against a newcomer in this emerging country. The results can be used to improve each firm’s supplier base management approach and create more efficiency in their further development.
Research limitations/implications – The framework is based on a profound theoretical foundation and worked well in the case example. Further research should apply the framework using more cases and also different industries.
Practical implications – Our benchmarking framework provides a powerful tool for supply chain managers to analyze their current supply networks and identify potential areas for improvement or collaboration with other buying companies. Through benchmarks across companies or across countries new entrants can learn from more advanced players or from experiences of their own organizations in other emerging markets.
Originality/value – This paper builds on current theories to develop a benchmarking framework for supply network configuration analysis combining the dyadic, chain and network level into one framework. The case example exemplifies its application.
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Moser, R., Kern, D., Wohlfarth, S., Hartmann, E. (2011). Supply Network Configuration Benchmarking: Framework Development and Application in the Indian Automotive Industry. In: Essays on Purchasing and Supply Management. Essays on Supply Chain Management. Gabler Verlag. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-8349-6227-0_4
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