Kitheka Samson

Abstract

Purpose: Increased supply chain volatility has been a problem in many modern supply chains with few solutions being advanced by scholars and practitioners alike. This subject has not received much attention and the aspects of data aggregation, data incompleteness, information sharing and coordination and isolated demands continue to trouble many supply chains. The purpose of this paper is to study the knowledge existing in the literature of supply chain volatility for identifying the supply chain practices adopted for ensuring sustainability in the supply chains.

Methodology: A systematic review of literature will be conducted to identify the conceptual and empirical studies. The findings of the research will be synthesized in categories of supply chain volatility, demand management practices and outcomes.

Findings: A set of propositions linking supply chain volatility, and performance improvement will be developed.

Value: Practitioners and scholars will benefit from the knowledge developed and mechanisms to reduce supply chain volatility. The research will draw lessons from the developed actionable theories of supply chain volatility and bull-whip effect to overcome challenges faced by supply chains. The research will highlight the key short comings of the existing literature and provide opportunities for further research and improvement.

Key Words: Supply chain volatility; supply chain management; bull-whip effect; demand management.