Different roads to success: (A multi-method approach) leveraging supply chain management practices to support organizational excellence in the energy sector Houston, Texas - USA

Williams, Alisha

Abstract

Growing worldwide demand for current conventional sources of energy, which is considered a fundamental ingredient to human life as we know it, has resulted in problems of scarcity and adverse environmental impact. It is predicted that conventional sources are at the inception of a very possible energy crisis in the next two or three decades. As such, companies in the energy industry will need to ensure robust, transformational sustainability, to allow for reinvestment in renewable sources of energy, in support of life as we know it.
Appreciating that there are different roads to success within organizations, this study explores the impact of supply chain management practices on organizational excellence, as keys to long-term organizational sustainability. There is evidence to suggest that in practice, success factors attributed to efficiency of supply chains are not being addressed. This is a concern since organizations can attain competitive advantage through strategically implemented supply chain management practices.
A mixed-methods research approach was leveraged, to allow the deficiencies found in each method, to be supplemented by the strengths of the other. This approach rendered richness and depth of data which is substantiated throughout the thesis. The data acquired facilitated the design and influenced the implementation of a conceptual model, in support of organizational excellence.
The study has embarked on several fundamental revelations such as the fact that the face of organizational sustainability has evolved over the years. No longer is sustainability derived from financial security but from key stakeholder relationships. People are not an organization’s greatest asset, but how an organization empowers its people is the greatest asset, and the factors which affect organizational performance is different for companies in the energy industry, based on execution models and regulatory requirements.
The study concludes that there is indeed a link between supply chain management practices and organizational excellence and captures fundamental challenges and pain points that should be addressed to allow for alignment. Performance factors and challenges specific to the energy industry have been identified and included for consideration.
A wealth of contributions has been identified throughout the research as a result of the valuable academic literature, the research methods utilized, and the offerings of the participants. Contributions to practice and knowledge have been carefully captured as opportunities to influence current business deficiencies and to allow for future research. The researcher’s recommendations and the conceptual model are intended to provide clarity for future researchers and industry practitioners alike.

Citation

Williams, A. Different roads to success: (A multi-method approach) leveraging supply chain management practices to support organizational excellence in the energy sector Houston, Texas - USA. (Thesis). Edinburgh Napier University

• Thesis Type: Thesis
• Deposit Date: Sep 4, 2024
• Publicly Available Date: Sep 4, 2024
• DOI: https://doi.org/10.17869/enu.2024.3789807
• Award Date: Jul 4, 2024