Proceedings of ICLT 2025
THE IMPORTANCE OF SUPPLY CHAIN DATA ANALYTICS IN SMEs
Annicha Wasurattanapat; Poti Chaopaisarn
Logistics Engineering and Supply Chain Management Program, Department of Industrial Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Chiang Mai University, Thailand; Supply Chain and Engineering Management Research Unit, Faculty of Engineering, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand
International Conference on Logistics & Transport 2025, Tokyo, Japan, pp. 239-246
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Abstract
Purpose: While large corporations leverage data analytics for supply chain optimization, Thai SMEs lag significantly behind despite representing 99% of local businesses. This study investigates how supply chain data analytics (SCDAs) can transform operational performance in resource-constrained SME environments and examines their impact on supply chain decision-making and efficiency. Design/methodology/approach: The authors has conducted a cross-sectional survey of Thai SME managers across multiple industries using the Technology-Organization-Environment (TOE) framework. Statistical analysis and regression modeling established links between analytics adoption and key performance indicators including inventory turnover, demand forecasting accuracy, and supply chain responsiveness. Findings: SMEs implementing basic SCDAs achieved improvements in inventory management and demand forecasting accuracy compared to non-adopters. However, only few SMEs currently use supply chain analytics due to perceived complexity and resource constraints. Critical success factors include management commitment, employee training, and phased implementation. Originality: This study addresses a critical gap by focusing on SME analytics applications in emerging economies. Unlike previous research on large-scale enterprise solutions, the authors demonstrate how simplified approaches deliver substantial value in small-scale operations, providing the first comprehensive analysis of SCDA adoption barriers a
Keywords
Supply Chain Data Analytics; Small and Medium-sized; Enterprises; Data Analytics; Operational Performance; Data-driven decision-making
Citation
Annicha Wasurattanapat; Poti Chaopaisarn (2025). THE IMPORTANCE OF SUPPLY CHAIN DATA ANALYTICS IN SMEs. Proceedings of the International Conference on Logistics & Transport (ICLT 2025), Tokyo, Japan, pp. 239-246.