A framework for analysing supply chain improvement

Introduction This paper will discuss the need for a robust conceptual framework for supplychain management. It forms part of a continuing research programme at UMIST aimed at producing a broadly applicable theoretical basis for work in this important area. The discussion adopts the following structure. First it is argued that despite the explosion of interest in the field, there remain significant obstacles in formulating sensible research strategies. A simple taxonomy is then presented, which allows some of the evidence in this area to be classified; without this differentiation of approach there is a danger of mistaking different types of supply-chain “phenomena” and thus in formulating an unreliable prescription. Some examples are given which illustrate the use of the framework. Finally, the implications of the taxonomy are examined, and some avenues for further work suggested.