Research Opportunities in Purchasing and Supply Management
Schoenherr, Tobias, Sachin B. Modi, W. C. Benton, Craig R. Carter, Thomas Y. Choi, Paul D. Larson, Michiel R. Leenders, Vincent A. Mabert, Ram Narasimhan, and Stephan M. Wagner. “Research Opportunities in Purchasing and Supply Management,” International Journal of Production Research, Vol. 50, No. 1
85 Pages Posted: 5 Jul 2014
Date Written: 2012
Abstract
Purchasing and supply management (PSM) are crucial for the effective and efficient operation of manufacturing firms, now more than ever. The PSM function has evolved from being routine and mechanical to a function that delivers true competitive advantage. The trend toward increased globalization and outsourcing, along with a focus on innovation- and capability-driven supply management, has led to an increased reliance on suppliers. This has significantly enhanced the importance of PSM for manufacturing companies. The heightened significance in practice has been paralleled by increasing attention by researchers in developing theories and chronicling best practices. At the same time, the rapid rate of change represents both daunting challenges and exciting opportunities for research in PSM. It is the goal of this article to highlight such challenges and discuss opportunities in PSM research. This objective is accomplished via the nominal group technique involving a panel of leading scholars in the purchasing and supply management field. As such, the article presents a synthesis and discussion of important research themes, poses a set of intriguing research opportunities, and serves as a motivation for future investigation.
Keywords: purchasing, supply management, research opportunities, future directions, nominal group technique
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