Objectives. The research focus of this paper is the development of an information infrastructure for managing distribution networks characterized by multiple supply chains that converge in a single final point of sale (FPS). Methodology. Starting from a deep investigation on former collaborative initiatives in the distribution chains, a domain where collaborative distribution chains are integrated to constitute a meta-value chain is formulated and defined as Convergent Distribution Chains (CDCs). Consequently, a technological platform is proposed for the management of CDCs specific requirements. The abovementioned steps have been developed accordingly to the constructivist approach. Findings. CDCs is very different from the traditional collaborative initiatives in the distribution chains such as ECR (Efficient Consumer Response) and CPFR (Collaborative Planning Forecasting and Replenishment). The distinguishing feature of these CDCs lies on the fact that the products offered to the final consumer are produced with a Make to Order logic and these products do not enter into competition with one another but, on the contrary, they are complementary and coherent. In this way, the final consumer finds an integrated package that makes his/her purchase more complete and efficient: the final point of sale provides an Extended Value Proposition to its customers. Research limits. The proposed technological platform is limited by CDCs abovementioned features and needs a testing/refining phase for enhancing its structure. Practical implications. The management of a CDCs requires the availability of adequate software tools in order to enables the stakeholders to offer to the final customer this Extended Value Proposition by the combination of their respective complementary products. Originality of the study. In the paper, after providing an innovative delineation of CDCs, both the modules that form the technological platform and the specific software function of each modules, are described.
A supply chain resource planning system infrastructure to support value co-creation in distribution networks
Panizzolo R.;de Crescenzo A. M.
2017
Abstract
Objectives. The research focus of this paper is the development of an information infrastructure for managing distribution networks characterized by multiple supply chains that converge in a single final point of sale (FPS). Methodology. Starting from a deep investigation on former collaborative initiatives in the distribution chains, a domain where collaborative distribution chains are integrated to constitute a meta-value chain is formulated and defined as Convergent Distribution Chains (CDCs). Consequently, a technological platform is proposed for the management of CDCs specific requirements. The abovementioned steps have been developed accordingly to the constructivist approach. Findings. CDCs is very different from the traditional collaborative initiatives in the distribution chains such as ECR (Efficient Consumer Response) and CPFR (Collaborative Planning Forecasting and Replenishment). The distinguishing feature of these CDCs lies on the fact that the products offered to the final consumer are produced with a Make to Order logic and these products do not enter into competition with one another but, on the contrary, they are complementary and coherent. In this way, the final consumer finds an integrated package that makes his/her purchase more complete and efficient: the final point of sale provides an Extended Value Proposition to its customers. Research limits. The proposed technological platform is limited by CDCs abovementioned features and needs a testing/refining phase for enhancing its structure. Practical implications. The management of a CDCs requires the availability of adequate software tools in order to enables the stakeholders to offer to the final customer this Extended Value Proposition by the combination of their respective complementary products. Originality of the study. In the paper, after providing an innovative delineation of CDCs, both the modules that form the technological platform and the specific software function of each modules, are described.
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