Using experts to develop a supply chain maturity model in Mexico

Purpose - This research aims to develop a supply chain maturity model so that Mexican firms can evaluate their current supply chain operations and develop an improvement road-map. Design/methodology/approach - The Delphi Method was used with 80 experts in Mexico. The Delphi Method gathers multiple perspectives on supply chain operations and delineates a path to reach a group consensus. The results lead to the specification of a supply chain maturity model S(CM)(2). S(CM)(2) is validated through experimentation and a pilot test to verify the ability of the model to help managers assess the supply chain processes of a firm by identifying their maturity level in each model viewpoint. A pilot test with a Mexican firm demonstrates the practical implementation of the model. Findings - The research results in a meta-model, called the supply chain maturity model S(CM)(2), that describes supply chain maturity at five levels across multiple competency areas, and provides guidance to specify an improvement plan. Research limitations/implications - The meta-model was developed in Mexico and may not apply to the operations of supply chains in other countries. Additionally, the large scope of the meta-model calls for further testing and refinement. Practical implications - The research provides a means for firms to evaluate their supply chain operations and develop improvement plans. Originality/value - The paper contributes by integrating the ideas of reference frameworks, capability maturity models, and improvement processes and demonstrates how a holistic meta-model can be developed to evaluate supply chain operations.