Application of extension theory in evaluation of supply chain flexibility

Abstract

Quantitative analysis of the supply chain flexibility is a difficult task to handle. Extension theory is used for the first time to evaluate supply chain flexibility in this paper. On the basis of previous research on supply chain flexibility, this paper uses a new research method-extension analysis, establishes the matter-element model of the supply chain flexibility, and takes a quantitative analysis of the model in all dimensions of flexibility combined with case studies. It can reveal different levels of supply chain flexibility as well as the tendency of flexibility transform, and be helpful for supply chain managers to develop reasonable strategies to improve supply chain flexibility.