Adoption of supply chain analytics in SMEs: an exploratory study

Abstract

Objective

Given the extant knowledge in the literature of the intersection among big data, analytics, and supply chain management, this thesis is aimed to explore the adoption of supply chain analytics in the SMEs. More specifically, the thesis’ main objectives are to investigate under what situations the SMEs adopt supply chain analytics and provide the recommendations for SMEs in adopting supply chain analytics.

Summary

Based on the content analysis of interviews with solution providers from different countries, the thesis has explored the main motivations behind the adoptions from SMEs, and the necessary existing resources and the challenges for SMEs to adopt supply chain analytics. Given such findings, a framework for future research on the factors that affect the adoption of supply chain analytics in SMEs is proposed and detailed recommendations for such companies are also discussed.

Conclusions

In conclusion, the adoption of supply chain analytics in SMEs is still in modest rate due to certain barriers and complex required resources for SMEs in adopting such practices. The decisions to adopt supply chain analytics in SMEs depends on factors such as perceived benefits, dynamic environment, data-driven culture, necessary resources, and challenges of the adoptions. The thesis recommends that SMEs should firstly build basic awareness of analytics, and technical capability related to data management before adopting supply chain analytics. Then, SMEs also need to emphasize on change management and adopt alignment strategy to optimize the benefits gained from analytics adoptions.