Book Description
This paper explores the topic of supply chain management using case studies of companies from the automotive industry. Focus is given to the way supply chain strategies in the automotive industry are designed and implemented, and how automotive companies configure their supply chains through collaboration, lean principles, and agility. The paper also explores how advanced technologies, notably Big Data analytics and the Internet of Things, are utilized in the automotive industry to maintain a competitive advantage. Key findings made in the discussion are that success in supply chain management is enhanced if firms seek to integrate the different components making up the supply chain.Additionally, collaboration between entities fosters trust, which is a vital ingredient in the application of lean principles. The automotive industry shows that companies should pursue flexibility and efficiency, which are captured in the notions of agility and leanness, respectively. The paper identifies collaboration and advanced technologies as two critical sources of sustainable competitive advantages to organizations primarily in reference to supply chain management.