Reference no: EM132321467
After you have read the materials I provided, do some additional research on your own and develop a 5-6 page paper discussing the following concepts:
How can concentrated clusters enhance the management of supply chains and improve overall firm performance? How might this management concept vary between international firms and domestic firms? What are the negatives of the concentrated cluster theory?
You must have 5-6 pages of written text plus a cover sheet and references page. Use at least 3 different sources of information and annotate your sources of information appropriately on your references page and within the text if necessary. You will be assessed on how well you apply your understanding of various location strategies, particularly with respect to the cluster theory. Research the many resources on the internet to make your points and be sure to differentiate between international and domestic situations.
DeWitt, T., Giunipero, L. C., & Melton, H. L., (2006). Clusters and supply chain management: the Amish experience. International Journal of Physical Distribution & Logistics Management, 36(4). Retrieved on December 9, 2014
Abstract: Purpose - To demonstrate the linkage between Porter's cluster theory and supply chain management, and provide evidence of their potential joint positive impact on competitiveness and firm performance. Design/methodology/approach - The paper examines the linkage between cluster theory and supply chain management using data from a case study of the Amish furniture industry in Homes County, Ohio, USA. Findings - Using the Amish furniture industry and a representative furniture firm as examples, the paper shows the positive impact of operating within an integrated supply chain in a geographically concentrated cluster. Research limitations/implications - Use of a single case study approach limits the generalizability of the findings; the paper recommends further study of linkages in other industries and locations. Practical implications - The study suggests that firms build competitive advantage by initially focusing primarily on local resources when selecting supply chain partners, rather than looking only for low cost advantage through distant sourcing. Originality/value - This paper adds to the literature on business linkages by proposing an expanded definition of clusters as geographical concentrations of competing supply networks.