Strategic use of enterprise systems among service firms: Antecedents and consequences

As competition in the service sector is continuously intensifying, managers are increasingly realizing how effective use of enterprise systems (ESs) might improve competition capabilities. Building on previous work that explores ESs and supply chain integration, this study investigates antecedents and consequences of ES usage among service firms. Following an empirical study using data from 233 Swedish retail and wholesale service providers, findings indicate that internal reasons such as access to new markets and anticipated performance, rather than external pressure, drive ES adoption. The study further reveals that ES usage relates positively to supply chain integration, which subsequently relates to firm performance via the mediating variable of competition capabilities. This study contributes by synthesizing previously separate constructs into a coherent research model that is both empirically viable and integrative. The study concludes by discussing implications for theory building and management practice.