A novel research methodology for supply network collaboration management

A supply chain has a multi-stage complex topological structure that is reconfigured dynamically and evolves over time. These features represent great challenges to supply network collaboration management. This paper proposes a novel research methodology for supply network collaboration research, including a methodological basis, a procedure model, and a conceptual decision-making model. The methodology integrates a three-dimensional flow model with a SCOR (Supply chain operations reference model)-based process modeling approach, a multi-agent system, distributed simulation technology and a three-dimensional decision-making model to support supply network analysis, modeling, standardization, development, implementation and decision making. This method creatively uses material, information and time flows as the research objects, combines process-oriented and agent-oriented modeling approaches and integrates multiple models, approaches and technologies to reduce research assumptions and constraints while improving the quality of research findings. The case for a five-stage make-to-order (MTO) supply network is studied for the application of the methodology and to verify its effectiveness.