Inter‐organizational communication as a relational competency: Antecedents and performance outcomes in collaborative buyer–supplier relationships

TLDR

Inter‑organizational communication is a critical factor for strategic collaboration among firms. The study investigates inter‑organizational communication as a relational competency that may yield strategic advantages for supply chain partners by examining its antecedents and performance outcomes. The authors use structural equation modeling on data from over 200 U.S. firms to test hypothesized relationships.

Abstract

Abstract Inter‐organizational communication has been documented as a critical factor in promoting strategic collaboration among firms. In this paper, we seek to extend the stream of research in supply chain management by systematically investigating the antecedents and performance outcomes of inter‐organizational communication. Specifically, inter‐organizational communication is proposed as a relational competency that may yield strategic advantages for supply chain partners. Using structural equation modeling, we empirically test a number of hypothesized relationships based on a sample of over 200 United States firms. Our results provide strong support for the notion of inter‐organizational communication as a relational competency that enhances buyers’ and suppliers’ performance. Implications for future research and practice are offered.