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Bullwhip effect reduction and improved business performance through guanxi: An empirical study

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  • Cao, Qing
  • Baker, Jeff
  • Schniederjans, Dara

Abstract

Many operations managers have realized the potential of guanxi to facilitate business transactions. Likewise, operations management researchers have looked at the negative impact caused by the bullwhip effect on excess inventory and the impact of the bullwhip effect on business performance. To date, however, no empirical research has integrated these research streams. Therefore, we draw on both operations strategy literature as well as marketing strategy literature to propose a conceptual model that links guanxi, the bullwhip effect, and business performance in an empirical study. Analysis of our survey data (N=205) using structural equation modeling (SEM) indicates that guanxi has a positive impact on business performance and also reduces the bullwhip effect. We also show how a moderating factor, competition, affects the usefulness of guanxi. Specifically, we provide evidence that the link between guanxi and business performance is weakened by a highly competitive environment.

Suggested Citation

  • Cao, Qing & Baker, Jeff & Schniederjans, Dara, 2014. "Bullwhip effect reduction and improved business performance through guanxi: An empirical study," International Journal of Production Economics, Elsevier, vol. 158(C), pages 217-230.
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:proeco:v:158:y:2014:i:c:p:217-230
    DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpe.2014.07.030
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    Cited by:

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    2. Suying Yang & Yanhui Mao & Tao Liu & Conrad Baldner & Scott Roberts & Shaokai Lu, 2023. "Achieving ambidextrous learning in construction engineering project partnerships: the roles of formal control and Chinese guanxi," Asian Business & Management, Palgrave Macmillan, vol. 22(1), pages 431-462, February.
    3. Jialin Gui & Dashuang Dai & Qilong Zong, 2024. "Driving Configuration for Growth of New Technology-Based Ventures in China from an Optimal Distinctiveness Perspective," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 16(5), pages 1-23, February.
    4. Yang, Y. & Lin, J. & Liu, G. & Zhou, L., 2021. "The behavioural causes of bullwhip effect in supply chains: A systematic literature review," International Journal of Production Economics, Elsevier, vol. 236(C).
    5. J.E. Sutanto & Arnold Japutra, 2021. "The Impact of Supply Chain Integration and Trust on Supply Chain Performance: Evidence from Indonesia Retail Sector," International Journal of Economics & Business Administration (IJEBA), International Journal of Economics & Business Administration (IJEBA), vol. 0(1), pages 211-224.

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