Does ICT influence supply chain management and performance? A review of survey-based research

Purpose - The purpose of this paper is to review and classify survey-based research connecting information and communication technology (ICT), supply chain management (SCM), and supply chain (SC) performance. The review evaluates present empirical results and aims at detecting explanations for similarities and differences in reported findings in the current literature. Design/methodology/approach - The paper is based upon a structured literature review of the major journals in the fields of operations management, logistics, and information systems. Findings - The point of departure in this paper is the possible inconsistency in reported findings within this field of research. The paper finds that measurements and constructs in all three major variables (ICT, SCM, SC performance) are different and often incomparable, and contextual factors are not systematically considered. Surprisingly, despite these differences, the papers reviewed show that generally, there is a positive direct or indirect effect of ICT on performance and SCM. Research limitations/implications - The paper aims at reviewing the survey-based literature only. Findings from case studies and other types of studies are not considered. An implication of this paper might be to reconsider how future survey studies should be designed and what constructs and issues need to be incorporated. Specifically, the relationships between single technologies, aspects of SCM and performance dimensions need specific attention in future research. Originality/value - The paper offers a systematic review that helps to further develop our understanding of the relationship of SCM, ICT, and SC performance.