Towards a unified definition of supply chain management: The four fundamentals

Edward Sweeney*

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Chapter in Book/Published conference outputChapter

Abstract

A wide range of definitions of supply chain management (SCM) have been developed over the last three decades. The philosophy of SCM is based firmly on a recognition that it is only by working in a more integrated manner that competitive advantage can be maximised. However, for this to become a reality the development of common definitions and understandings between supply chain partners is a critical success factor. The corollary of this is that a lack of definitional consistency and a common understanding is an inhibitor to the successful adoption of SCM thinking in practice. This paper reviews a number of definitions of SCM, as well as discussions and analyses of such definitions. This leads to the central point posited in the paper - the need for a 'unified definition'. Such a definitional construct, labelled the Four Fundamentals of SCM, is proposed with the core of the paper providing a narrative description of this construct based on a wide range of literature.

Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationTechnological Solutions for Modern Logistics and Supply Chain Management
PublisherIGI Global
Pages32-50
Number of pages19
ISBN (Electronic)9781466627741
ISBN (Print)1466627743, 9781466627734
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 31 Jan 2013

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