Global Supply Chain Strategies for SMBS‪.‬

Abstract A growing number of organizations have become famous for their global supply chains. These companies have been elevated to superstar status in the business world largely because of their supply chain innovations and resultant performance. Global access via the Internet now allows small to mid-sized businesses (SMBs) to get into the act. One approach for smaller organizations to achieve world class levels of cost savings, market response, efficiency, and strategic advantage is to emulate proven supply chain management (SCM) strategies via a multi-step process involving integration, synchronization, collaboration, communication, information, and dedication. The purpose of this paper is outline how veritable supply chain strategies can be used by SMBs to improve productivity and thus increase their competitive posture in the growing global marketplace. Specific findings indicate that SMBs traditionally tend to have more concentrated supply networks and to use their information systems independently, rather than in an integrated manner. The advent of new cost-effective information technologies, including virtual networking, and the allure of expanding markets provide ample opportunities for SMBs to more fully align their business models with the overall global supply network.