AN EVALUATION OF THE VARIABLES AND TERMINOLOGIES EMPLOYED IN THE CONSTRUCTS OF SCM PRACTICES

• Published in: JOSCM. Journal of Operations and Supply Chain Management 2012-06, Vol.5 (1), p.1-15
• Main Authors: Da Silva, Eliciane Maria, Sacomano Neto, Mario, Pires, Sílvio Roberto Ignácio
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• ISSN: 1984-3046; 1984-3046
• DOI: 10.12660/joscmv5n1p1-15

The main aim of this study was to conduct a meticulous analysis of which words or terms are used in the variables that best represent the concepts of SCM practices. The research conducted can be classified as being of a descriptive, exploratory and qualitative character. The search of the articles was made in the Scopus and Web of Science. The final sample was composed of 51 articles, drawn from 18 periodicals. For analysis, the definition of a construct was taken as the base, its relation with manifested variables and words or terms most used and coherent with the definition of the concepts and the contexts in which these terms were applied. A total of 639 variables that defined constructs, were transcribed. Similarity is noted in the employment of their variables and common use of words in the definition of the concepts. However, the constructs possess different nomenclatures. Therefore, confusion is present in the studies analyzed. The study sought to contribute to greater discernment of the concepts, making a critical reflective understanding of the practices in the area. It was raised in the subsections of the discussions that the authors used the same terms in different contexts. It was pointed out the future prospects for formation of the concepts, showing how such constructs are being modified and perfected by means of the introduction of theories, such as the theory of Transaction Cost Economics, the Resource-Based View, Agency Theory, and Knowledge-Based Theory