A resource-based view on enablers of supplier integration: evidence from China

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to investigate the effects of human resource (HR) and manufacturing plant information technology (MP-IT) resource on companies’ internal integration capabilities and how these resources/capabilities influence supplier integration. Design/methodology/approach – Using data collected from 604 Chinese manufacturers, the authors empirically test the effects of different types of resources/capabilities on supplier integration. Findings – The results show that HR has both direct and indirect effects on supplier integration through their effects on internal integration capabilities. MP-IT resource only has significant indirect effects on supplier integration through internal integration capabilities. The results also indicate that HR is more important than MP-IT resource in improving internal integration capabilities and supplier integration. Originality/value – This study empirically investigates enablers of supplier integration in China, contributing to supply chain integration literature and practices.