Agility through implementation: A case from a global supply chain

This case is based on sharing empirical experiences and results from several years of collaborative research. The focus is on implementation projects with solutions for spare parts distribution in the automotive industry. The origin is a Volvo initiative with a Web portal for selling spare parts over the Internet. The journey will start with the creation of a platform for distribution of spare parts and continue with the process of introducing Web services and building new relations. The new structure relies on the development of integration between legacy and a new information technology, platform. The study followed the development of the platform as well as innovations that emerged in the new business structure. The paper describes the difficulty of creating a new platform and the even-more difficult establishment of new relations. However, the case also illustrates that continuous implementation projects deliver innovation in new relations and new channels, thereby displaying the unprecedented agility with which IT enables business value. The leverage for this is high and it is easier to roll out the new channels after the first implementation. Agility is achieved by working continuously with scenario development and by keeping implementation projects comprehensive, involving both technology and relations between supply chain actors.