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Capabilities that enhance outcomes of an episodic supply chain collaboration
Author(s) -
Zacharia Zach G.,
Nix Nancy W.,
Lusch Robert F.
Publication year - 2011
Publication title -
journal of operations management
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 3.649
H-Index - 191
eISSN - 1873-1317
pISSN - 0272-6963
DOI - 10.1016/j.jom.2011.02.001
Subject(s) - absorptive capacity , competence (human resources) , knowledge management , supply chain , business , structural equation modeling , process (computing) , process management , psychology , computer science , marketing , social psychology , machine learning , operating system
Firms are increasingly dependent on the knowledge and expertise in external organizations to innovate, problem‐solve, and improve supply chain performance. This research examines two capabilities that enable firms to collaborate successfully as a means to combine knowledge and expertise in an episodic collaboration initiative. Building from two theoretical foundations, the knowledge‐based and relational views of the firm, we examine the effects of absorptive capacity and collaborative process competence on the outcomes of an episodic collaboration initiative. Using structural equation modeling, we empirically validate the positive effect of absorptive capacity, collaborative process competence and level of engagement on the operational and relational success of a collaboration effort. Results show that collaborative process competence mediates the relationship between absorptive capacity and collaborative engagement, and positively influences both operational and relational outcomes. Finally, we offer suggestions for managers to improve the effectiveness of inter‐firm collaboration initiatives and discuss future research opportunities.