Framing the interplay mechanisms between structural and dynamic complexity in supply chains

This paper explores the interplay between structural and dynamic complexity factors, uncovering mechanisms that underpin it. Four in-depth inductive case studies, which comprised semi-structured interviews with senior operations SC managers as well use of companies’ official documents other secondary data, were carried out. The study offers a deep understanding provides rich empirical descriptions factors. A general framework to represent different aspects this is also introduced, i.e. House Supply Chain Complexity diagram; practical tool for mapping factors inferring prevailing in specific cases. results show four factors: silo-thinking, localism, limited adaptability increased uncertainty. Testable propositions are presented relevant insights on wide range Research implications relate to: (i) usable further investigate at level contexts (ii) theory building suggested mechanisms. We contribute enhance contingency research claiming importance considering cumulative effect performance. suggest can accommodate silo-thinking uncertainty by information sharing organizational means, but localism appear be more related physical structure elements thus mainly manageable reducing complexity, involved interplay.