A Review on the Impact Mechanisms of Supply Chain Collaboration on Operational Efficiency — With Emphasis on Manufacturing Industr
Journal: Modern Economics & Management Forum DOI: 10.32629/memf.v7i1.4867
Abstract
Supply chain collaboration (SCC) has emerged as an essential enabler of operational excellence within manufacturing industries characterized by complex interdependencies, heightened uncertainty, and demand for rapid responsiveness. While scholars widely recognize the value of collaboration, the mechanisms through which SCC affects operational efficiency remain diverse and context contingent. This review synthesizes theoretical and empirical research from over two decades to identify how SCC — through information sharing, joint decision-making, coordinated planning, relational governance, and digital integration-affects operational performance outcomes. Evidence from surveys, econometric analyses, case-based studies, and simulation models is consolidated to provide a comprehensive understanding of collaborative mechanisms. Findings suggest that SCC consistently enhances key performance dimensions including lead-time reliability, inventory optimization, production scheduling stability, cost efficiency, and agility. However, these effects are conditioned by relational quality, technological compatibility, governance alignment, and environmental uncertainty. The review further identifies diminishing returns, coordination costs, and contextual constraints that challenge collaboration effectiveness. Future research opportunities are proposed, emphasizing digital–collaborative interactions, behavioral dynamics, resilience–efficiency trade-offs, and cross-cultural comparative studies. This paper offers a holistic, mechanism-based perspective on how collaboration drives operational efficiency in contemporary manufacturing ecosystems.
Keywords
supply chain collaboration, operational efficiency, manufacturing industry, information sharing, joint decision-making
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[5] Chen, J., & Vachon, S. (2021). Partner coordination and pharmaceutical supply chain performance. International Journal of Production Research, 59(15), 4502–4518.
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[7] Ghani, I. M., & Osman, M. (2022). Digital supply chain integration and manufacturing performance. Computers & Industrial Engineering, 168, 108083.
[8] Goh, M., Lim, J., & Meng, F. (2017). Collaborative planning in electronics manufacturing supply chains. International Journal of Production Research, 55(14), 4105–4120.
[9] He, R., & Sun, P. (2023). Collaborative innovation and operational performance in Chinese manufacturing clusters. Technovation, 126, 102658.
[10] Kumar, S., Singh, J., & Park, J. (2022). Digital twin-enabled collaboration in industrial equipment manufacturing. Journal of Manufacturing Systems, 62, 738–752.
[11] Lee, H. L. (2004). The triple-A supply chain. Harvard Business Review, 82(10), 102–112.
[12] Lee, S., & Shin, H. (2020). Supplier involvement and NPI performance in semiconductor supply chains. International Journal of Production Economics, 227, 107674.
[13] Lee, S., Zhao, X., & Swink, M. (2019). Information sharing and performance in manufacturing supply chains. Production and Operations Management, 28(5), 1203–1220.
[14] Li, D., Li, X., & Liu, Y. (2021). Supply chain collaboration, digital integration, and logistics performance: Evidence from Chinese manufacturers. Transportation Research Part E, 153, 102441.
[15] Lin, C., & Chen, S. (2022). Digital collaboration platforms and operational performance in aerospace supply chains. Computers in Industry, 138, 103619.
[16] Müller, R., & Zhang, D. (2020). Automotive supply chain collaboration and performance outcomes. International Journal of Operations & Production Management, 40(3), 207–233.
[17] Park, Y., & Min, H. (2020). Demand uncertainty, joint decision-making, and supply chain efficiency. Omega, 96, 102064.
[18] Rajeev, A., Pati, R., & Padhi, S. (2018). Collaborative replenishment in consumer goods supply chains. Supply Chain Management: An International Journal, 23(5), 389–405.
[19] Sodhi, M., & Tang, C. S. (2021). Supply chain risk and resilience lessons from the COVID-19 pandemic. Journal of Supply Chain Management, 57(1), 7–12.
[20] Smith, P., & Zhao, Y. (2017). Information exchange and operational efficiency in automotive supply chains. Journal of Manufacturing Technology Management, 28(4), 550–569.
[21] Wong, C. Y., Boon-itt, S., & Wong, C. W. (2019). The effect of relational governance on operational stability. Journal of Operations Management, 65(2), 134–152.
[22] Yu, W., Jacobs, M., Salisbury, W., & Enns, H. (2020). Information sharing, forecast accuracy, and supply chain performance. International Journal of Production Economics, 227, 107688.
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