Exploring the Logistics Interface between Global and JIT Sourcing

Two of the most pervasive trends in purchasing management during the 1980s were the increased usage of global sourcing and the development of JIT sourcing. Both practices have become quite popular because of the significant competitive benefits they provide to the firms that successfully implement them. Despite their increasingly widespread adoption, these two sourcing strategies have traditionally been viewed as incompatible; therefore, most firms have not sought to integrate them in their efforts to enhance competitive position. Explores the potential of using logistics to facilitate the concurrent usage of global and JIT sourcing. Combines a conceptual discussion with an empirical study to understand better the opportunities to develop integrated global/JIT materials.