Role‐playing: a learning process to aid supply chain integration

Purpose – This paper introduces an alternative use of an existing learning mechanism to aid in gaining acceptance of others' roles within a supply chain. This view places an emphasis on role‐playing as a means to improve supply chain integration.Design/methodology/approach – This paper is conceptual and introduces a learning technique to enable both “hard” and “soft” systems orientated participants to be better understood between chain partners.Findings – The findings presented in this paper are conceptual. However, the technique offered has partially proven success in other management scenarios and yet to be tested in supply chain management.Practical implications – By embracing role‐playing, practitioners have opportunities to develop a deeper understanding and appreciation about other roles that participate in the same supply chain as themselves, creating an opportunity for enhanced integration between roles within their supply chain.Originality/value – The value of this paper is to invite the reader t...