A conceptual model of supply chain flexibility

• Published in: Industrial management + data systems Vol. 103; no. 6; pp. 446 - 456
• Main Authors: Duclos, Leslie K., Vokurka, Robert J., Lummus, Rhonda R.
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Wembley MCB UP Ltd 01.08.2003; Emerald Group Publishing Limited
• Subjects: Classification schemes; Competition; Efficiency; Flexibility; Manufacturers; Manufacturing; Strategic management; Studies; Suppliers; Supply chain management; Supply chains
• ISSN: 0263-5577; 1758-5783; 0263-5577
• DOI: 10.1108/02635570310480015

This paper presents an integrated conceptual model of supply chain flexibility. It examines flexibility classification schemes and the commonalities of flexibility typologies published in the literature to create a theoretical foundation for analyzing the components of supply chain flexibility. Even though there has been a tremendous amount of research on the topic of flexibility, most of it has been confined to intrafirm flexibility concerns. As supply chain management goes beyond a firms boundaries, the flexibility strategies must also extend beyond the firm. This paper identifies the crossenterprise nature of supply chain flexibility and the need to improve flexibility measures across firms. Opportunities are identified for future crossfunctional research that builds on this theoretical foundation and leads to more effective formulation of supply chain strategies.