Abstract:
This thesis examines the impact of e-Business in the B2B segment of the Supply Chain
between UK retailers and Sri Lankan manufacturers in the apparel sector.
The literature review explored four interrelated themes, two of them informed by an
exploratory study. Research collating these four themes is scarce, especially in the
apparel sector although there is considerable research on supply chain management and
information sharing, which adopts a quantitative approach. However, there is a relative
lack of qualitative research into behavioural issues. Based on the literature review, 12
main research questions were formulated.
Following a qualitative, approach respondents in five Sri Lankan apparel manufacturers
were interviewed in an explanatory study comprised of 35 interviews. An innate
analytical framework consisting of themes, attributes and categories (TAC) was
developed for data analysis. A conceptual model incorporating three category
combinations was developed, disclosing internal, external and holistic reasons for ICT
implementation.
Analysis of the findings suggests that, more than speed of delivery, visibility of
information is the main benefit facilitated by new ICT, compared with traditional
methods. The findings indicate that security is the main concern and the main barrier is
remote plant location for conducting e-Business. The data indicate that 80 per cent of
investigated companies do not have an appropriate level of ICT capability. Moreover, a
manufacturer’s communication capability and information sharing are mainly decided
by the dependency on the lead firm. Manufacturers that deal with multiple lead firms
experience compatibility problems due to the lack of a hybrid system. Manufacturers
also need to set realistic expectations for a communication system and employee
motivation should be included in the evaluation criteria. In conclusion, building a few
longer-term relationships, including an information sharing policy is considered crucial
for achieving the true potential of e-Business
