Communication in the supply chain: a systematic review of key impactful elements

Abstract

Communication emerges as a crucial pillar within the supply chain, assuming critical importance in the competitive and dynamic context of business. Faced with globalization, rapidly evolving customer preferences, and constant technological advancements, communication asserts itself as a determining factor for the success of businesses. The literature has frequently emphasized that communication, coupled with the development of strong relationships among supply chain actors, serves as an effective means to overcome obstacles in supply chain implementation. The objective of this article is to explore the importance of communication in the context of the supply chain and to thoroughly analyze the factors that facilitate or hinder communication within the supply chain through a systematic literature review using the PRISMA method. The study examines 40 relevant articles to identify and classify 18 distinct elements grouped into four categories: relational, intra-organizational, inter-organizational, and environmental. These findings provide significant insights for both researchers and practitioners, shedding light on key elements that influence communication within the supply chain. Furthermore, these conclusions pave the way for more in-depth future research on the complex dynamics of communication in this context, offering opportunities for substantial advancement and improvement for businesses operating within the supply chain.

Keywords: Communication, supply chain, performance, systematic review.

JEL Classification: D83

Paper type: Theoretical Research