This article analyzes the benefits and impediments of the integration of the footwear supply chain through the adoption of information technology (IT). An exploratory qualitative multiple case study was carried out in a Footwear Supply Chain in Rio Grande do Sul (Gaúcha), Brazil. Eight accessory suppliers (first tier in the supply chain, such as: heels, buckles, and decorative ornaments), eight footwear manufacturing companies (footwear manufacturer or assembly companies), four retail companies, and four IT service providers. The research techniques used were semi-structured interviews, direct observation, and document analysis. The data analysis showed benefits and impediments to the integration of IT in the studied supply chain. It was found that two IT integration models have been adopted by the computer service providers: Proprietary (accessible only to the service providers) and Open (accessible to all companies) models. Although closed, the proprietary IT integration model is widely used given its simplicity and low cost. On the other hand, the Open Model enables higher organization in the internal processes of the IT management, inventory management, and production. The results obtained contribute to the literature since they show ways to improve Footwear Supply Chain development by increasing the speed and providing more productive flexibility to this sector. Although attractive, these developments can be hindered by commercial ventures of companies that adopt the Proprietary Model. The identification of these impediments suggests the need for further studies to increase the understanding of conflicts among supply chain partners.
Information Technology Integration; Standardization process; Partnership; Footwear supply chain
