Integration of Global Supply Chain Management with Small to Mid-Size Suppliers

The purpose of this chapter is to develop a conceptual insight and an integrated framework to global supply chain management through strategic aspects of business philosophy as it pertains to the smallto mid-sized supplier. Primary consideration is given to characteristics of the integrated supply chain and the necessity of adaptation in managing the supply chain in order to attain competitive advantage. A review of the current literature and an analysis of the supply chain in changing global markets emphasize the relative importance of strategically managing the supply chain process given the limited resources of the smallto mid-sized firm. It is argued that managing the supply chain through the development of market specific strategies allows the small to mid-sized firm to be anticipatory as opposed to being reactive in its strategic planning, which can greatly benefit customer satisfaction levels and thus enhance the performance of the firm.