A structured framework for analysis and understanding of factors impacting the effective application of e-marketplaces

Internet-based technologies and, in particular, e-marketplace models have displayed considerable impact upon the technological, operational interaction, and business relationships between supply chain partners. The research described in this paper examines the interdependence between the technologies and the business relationships in supply chains and presents an e-marketplace implementation case study to illustrate the research approach. The research has indicated that the successful application of e-marketplaces requires a structured approach incorporating strategic, technical, operational and behavioural components of supply chain management. This approach is presented in the form of a DNA model which includes two main strands, physical/information and relationship/behavioural. Causal links between parameters in the two strands have been identified which operate as the mechanisms responsible for the overall performance of the new e-marketplace business models. In particular, the research illustrates that the behaviour parameters can significantly influence the transactions occurring in the e-marketplace in a positive or a negative way. The causality in the relationship strand could potentially materialise in the form of psychological games between the supply chain organisations. A case study undertaken in one of the UK's leading automotive manufacturers is also presented which demonstrates different aspects of the proposed model in practice.