The effect of environmental uncertainty, information quality, and collaborative logistics on supply chain flexibility of small manufacturing firms in India

Abstract

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to investigate the relationship between environmental uncertainty, information quality, and proactive logistics practices on supply chain flexibility. Design/methodology/approach – A survey of 75 Indian small-scale manufacturers in Coimbatore (Southern India) was conducted. Findings – India, which is a thriving emerging economy, is an ideal location for this study. Results indicate that if managers wish to ensure improved supply chain flexibility, firms must work to improve information quality. Research limitations/implications – The small sample size is a limitation of the study, so too is the narrow sector targeted (small-scale manufacturing). Practical implications – The results reinforce the fact that supply chain management has many elements that can impact a manufacturing firm's responsiveness, which is especially true in an emerging market like India. Originality/value – The paper is one of the first to survey small-scale manufacturing executives regarding their acceptance of and use of supply chain concepts under environmental uncertainty.