Virtual Integration
Virtual integration stitches together a business with partners that are treated as if they are inside the company (Michael Dell, Founder of Dell Inc.). Find out why virtual integration has been dubbed the future of supply chains. Key strengths and weaknesses are outlined and advice on implementation and measurement is provided.
Technique Overview
Virtual Integration Definition
The term virtual integration was introduced by Michael Dell in the 1990s to describe processes resulting from combining traditional supply chain vertical integration with the characteristics of the virtual organisation. Virtual integration uses technology to bind together a dispersed network of suppliers, manufacturers and distributors (Kraemer & Dedrick, 2002).
Virtual Integration Description *
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Business Evidence
Strengths, weaknesses and examples of Virtual Integration *
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Business Application
Implementation, success factors and measures of Virtual Integration *
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Professional Tools
Virtual Integration videos and downloads *
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Further Reading
Virtual Integration web and print resources *
Virtual Integration references (4 of up to 20) *
- Abebe, M.A. (2007) To Integrate or Not to Integrate: Factors Affecting the Adoption of Virtual Integration Strategy in Organisations. Business Strategy Series, Vol. 8(3), pp. 196-202.
- Barki, H. and Pinsonneault, A. (2005) A Model of Organisational Integration, Implementation Effort and Performance. Organization Science, Vol. 16(2), pp. 165-179.
- Chaffey, D. (2009) E-Business and E-Commerce Management. Prentice Hall.
- Clay, B. (2010) Selling Change: 101+ Secrets for Growing Sales by Leading Change. Ariva Publishing.
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