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Toward understanding today's supply chain problems: a system thinking approach

Author

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  • J. Brian Atwater
  • Paul H. Pittman
  • Linda Christiansen

Abstract

Recent studies have concluded supply chain managers should develop a systemic understanding of their supply chains. This paper proposes the use of a systems dynamics tool called a causal loop diagram (CLD) to provide that systemic perspective. We start with a discussion of the theoretical evolution of the fields of supply chain management and system dynamics. We then show how to create a CLD, and then use the tool to draw a series of generic diagrams illustrating how supply chains have evolved and the key connections driving them today. We then demonstrate the use of a CLD by showing how the generic CLD developed in the paper can help surface key questions supply managers should ask when making strategic supply chain decisions. We conclude by identifying several other issues supply chain managers face and discuss the role CLDs can play in assisting them.

Suggested Citation

  • J. Brian Atwater & Paul H. Pittman & Linda Christiansen, 2023. "Toward understanding today's supply chain problems: a system thinking approach," International Journal of Logistics Economics and Globalisation, Inderscience Enterprises Ltd, vol. 10(2), pages 124-144.
  • Handle: RePEc:ids:injleg:v:10:y:2023:i:2:p:124-144
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