Supply Chain Management Research Productivity and Growth: 2017–2019

The supply chain management (SCM) discipline lacks resources to assess research performance, and our journals do not always receive fair recognition by other business disciplines. This study therefore extends a series of analyses dating back 50+ years to assess SCM publication productivity, evaluating the most productive schools across six journals as well as the associated growth of the base of SCM scholars. The results depict a relatively stable core set of productive schools, while relative research productivity remains mostly fluid outside this core set. In support, SCM author concentration results depict that the overall base of SCM scholars is continuing to expand without signs of slowing. Both SCM programs and individual scholars can apply the results to benchmark peers to improve research productivity and justify requests for resources at their schools. The results also help young scholars understand SCM research expectations and likewise target potential partners for collaboration. We close with thoughts for scholars, academic leaders, and journal editors, including the need for more international and multidisciplinary research collaboration as well as a greater diversity of schools graduating new SCM scholars. Additionally, SCM scholars and journals should revisit our historically strong ties to professional practice to enhance our research relevancy.