Causal Linkages in Supply Chain Management: An Exploratory Study of North American Manufacturing Firms
研究了215家北美制造企业，通过结构方程模型检验采购决策、制造目标、客户响应和制造绩效之间的因果链，发现整合供应链需要协调采购决策以实现制造目标并满足客户需求。
ABSTRACT In this paper we investigate the key causal linkages in supply chain management. We propose a conceptual framework and test this framework on data from 215 North American manufacturing firms using structural equation modeling techniques. Three major research issues are addressed in this study: Do sourcing decisions affect the degree to which firms achieve manufacturing goals of cost, flexibility, dependability, and quality? Does the degree of manufacturing goal achievement lead to higher customer responsiveness? Does the degree of manufacturing goal achievement lead to higher internal manufacturing performance? The study examines the relationship among sourcing decisions, manufacturing goals, customer responsiveness, and manufacturing performance. The results support the notion that an integrated supply chain involves aligning sourcing decisions to achieve manufacturing goals that are set to respond favorably to the needs of customers.