A case study for implementing a B2B collaborative information system: a textile case

Abstract

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to discover strategic implications and successful factors leading to the development of an attractive model for other firms to follow based on a typical case study. Design/methodology/approach This paper used a case study methodology to examine the case of a business‐to‐business (B2B) collaborative information system based on the first textile company in Taiwan to implement a RosettaNet‐like for B2B process integration. Findings The results showed that some key success factors included: support and understanding from the entire team, simple process redesign, standard process development, government support, distinctive operation collaboration model, total support from top management, and an effective and experienced team. Practical implications Managerial implications are as follows: employ vertical process integration to quickly exchange data, establish a platform to share information, establish vendor‐managed inventory (VMI) to lower costs, and a cross‐organization centre to effectively operate the platform. Originality/value The complete information structure provided in this case, the distinctive collaborative and the proposed implementation models can all serve as a reference for other enterprises whose size, scope and information technology level are similar to the focal firm in this case.