Small and medium enterprise (SME) research in SCM : the case for single-respondent research designs

Kull, Thomas and Kotlar, Josip and Spring, Martin (2018) Small and medium enterprise (SME) research in SCM : the case for single-respondent research designs. Journal of Supply Chain Management, 54 (1). pp. 23-34. ISSN 1523-2409

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Abstract

Deciding on the number of respondents in a data collection instrument is a key design consideration requiring supply chain researchers to balance multiple competing factors. The debate on this respondent design question may unintentionally disregard over 95% of enterprises engaged in supply chains: small and medium enterprises (SMEs). We present arguments for why single-respondent designs can be more appropriate in the SME setting, particularly when considering the various facets of supply chain management and the untapped potential of SCM-SME research. Assuring that SCM theoretical frameworks and research designs allow for SME inclusion will be important in aiding the SCM field to progress forward.