The architecture of supply chain collaboration

Previous research often associates supply chain collaboration with interorganisational process improvements and the use of information systems to allow the chain members to effectively match demand with supply. However, it is argued that supply chain collaboration has multiple elements that determine the effectiveness of the chain members in providing customer needs. This paper attempts to conceptualise the architecture of supply chain collaboration, which enables participating members to describe and scrutinise their collaborative practices. The architecture consists of five integrative elements: a collaborative performance system, decision synchronisation, information sharing, incentive alignment, and integrated supply chain processes. Two case studies are provided to illustrate the applicability of the framework. Data in case studies were collected by using secondary data and key informants from the company. Future research is required to elicit data using focus groups representing key players of collaboration for the purpose of model enhancement and action research.