Understanding supply chain innovation

Purpose Supply chain innovation (SCI) represents a complex construct, capturing the interest of practitioners and researchers alike. There is no commonly accepted definition for the term, field research on the construct appears to be highly fragmented and industry examples demonstrate diverse ways in which it occurs. Design/methodology/approach Reviewing definitional literature and top winners of the Council of Supply Chain Management Professionals’ Supply Chain Innovation Award, this manuscript identifies salient points about SCI to guide continued research and industry practice. Findings Seven points are made about SCI. These pertain to its multiple definitions, technology, relationships, performance outcomes, conceptual boundaries, hierarchy of scope and degree of innovation. Practical implications Managers should recognize that SCI is predicated on technology and relationships and that various types of innovation alongside SCI have applicability in the supply chain context. A fuller, more systemic and integrative understanding of SCI can broaden innovation opportunities and foster meaningful, enduring impact across supply chains. Originality/value Identifying seven points concerning SCI, we aim to provide conceptual clarity to the construct. Our treatise characterizes SCI as a distinct form of innovation whereby a focal firm leverages both technology and relationships to achieve efficiency and effectiveness outcomes through supply chain-related changes that range from incremental to radical in nature.