Supply chain management information systems survey for Jordanian companies

Abstract

Effective information system (IS) has been one of the key factors that shaped the supply chain management (SCM) developments in the last few decades. The literature on surveying IS in SCM is somehow scarce, particularly in developing countries. The purpose of this study is to investigate the current use and future adoption direction of Supply Chain Management Information Systems (SCMIS) in Jordan. Data from 64 manufacturing and service firms were collected. The results show that i) the overall implementation of SCMIS is very poor, ii) the currently implemented SCMIS, and the expected to implement, are mostly focusing/will focus on separated functions within firms, iii) integration with suppliers' and customers' system, resistance to change from employees, and insufficient vendor support; are the main problems facing the adaptation of SCMIS, and iv) for improving SCM activities; enhanced information provision and closer cooperation between firms and associated governmental agencies are needed. The study is concluded with recommendations for SCM policymakers, firms' managers, and SCMIS vendors.