Understanding the factors affecting e-business adoption and impact on logistics processes

Aristides Matopoulos, Maro Vlachopoulou, Vicky Manthou

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

Abstract

Purpose: The purpose of this paper is to conceptualize e-business adoption and to generate understanding of the range of factors affecting the adoption process. The paper also aims at exploring the perceived impact of e-business adoption on logistics-related processes. Design/methodology/approach: Case study research, by conducting in-depth interviews in eight companies. Findings: E-business adoption is not exclusively a matter of resources. Increased e-business adoption and impact are caused by increased operational compatibility, as well as increased levels of collaboration. In terms of e-business impact this mainly refers to cycle time reductions and quality improvements, rather than direct cost reductions as reported by other authors. Research limitations/implications: The intrinsic weakness of the research method and the way concepts are operationalized limits the ability to generalize findings. Practical implications: Managers should emphasize developing their relationships with theirsuppliers/customers, in an effort to do common e-business investments, and should aim to increase their partners' commitment to the use of these applications. Originality/value: This paper provides empirical evidence from a sector where limited research efforts have taken place. Explanations can be helpful to other researchers involved in the understanding of the adoption of e-business and its impact.
Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)853-865
Number of pages13
JournalJournal of Manufacturing Technology Management
Volume20
Issue number6
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 1 Jan 2009

Keywords

  • agriculture and food technology
  • distribution management
  • electronic commerce
  • supply chain management

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