Relationship Between Supply Chain Practices and Firm Performance with the Moderating Role of IT Integration: An Evidence From Healthcare Industry

Abstract

Previous studies suggest thnt the best supply chain management practices (SCMPs) have become an esse ntial factor for low-performing firms to remain competitive in the global race. Supply chain management practices are imrlemented to achieve and enhance performance by enabling an internal cross-functional integral ion wit hin the firm and external int e2rati0n with suppliers and customers. Ph;mnaccut ica l industry comprises a complex supply chain characterized hy a number of stakeholders where the Lkiivery of medica l co mmodil1es to the end users has to continually and seamless ly pass through various entities. The study was focused on finding the relationship lxt'.\ ccn supply ch:iin pr:icticcs. lirm perforrrnnce :ind IT integration of pharmaceutical industry. The study fo llowed quantitative research design. Basic variables of the study included supply chain management practices. firm performance and IT integration. The study employed snow ball sampling technique. The sample size was 220 firm managers working in Islamabad, Ra,,·alpindi and Lahore. Participants were invited to complete a se lf-reflective survey. Results showed that there is a significant positive relationship among SCMPs and firm performance. The findings can assist firm managers and researchers to better understand elements influencing firm performance.