A comprehensive model for supply chain integration

Purpose – Extant research on supply chain integration defines integration in different ways, and mainly discusses a limited number of integration elements. The purpose of this paper is to develop a conceptual integration model which consists of comprehensive elements that are important to academic research and industrial practices. Design/methodology/approach – Key literature survey with drawing threads of existing practices together for developing a systematic referential model and then verify the model with a real case. Findings – Developed a model consisting of integration elements residing at the strategic, managerial, operational, and fundamental levels (bottom line). Based on the benefit alignment, the total integration requires supply chain partners to integrate resource flows (material, information, knowledge, and finance), processes and organization, planning and control activities and strategy. Research limitations/implications – The research is based on secondary data and a case study illustration. Further empirical research is required. Practical implications – The normative model can guide managers to integrate resources and activities in their efforts for an effective supply chain management. It supplements the Supply Chain Operations Reference Model developed by the Supply Chain Council with an interface description, which may guide the development of information systems for supply chain integration. Originality/value – The comprehensive model provides a more inclusive and integrated perspective of supply chain integration. It is expected that the consensus of supply chain integration could be achievable based on this model. The conceptual framework will assist the researchers to determine integration variables of supply chain.