Results from the data analysis indicate that true collaboration is not yet present
in buyer-supplier relationships. Although certain key collaboration initiatives are
present, such as information sharing, other critical aspects like trust are not yet
widespread. Therefore, firms and supply chains still have room for improvement in
order to achieve the close relationships required in order to collaboratively practice
supply chain management. Finally, more research is identified to further progress the
field and to gain an improved understanding of the complex relationships necessary for
true collaboration
The second stage in the SCM continuum that Spekman et al (1998) denote is one
in which firms cooperate with one another and begin working together for the good of
all involved parties rather than individual firms. This stage of SCM became more
common in the 1980s as intense global competition led manufacturers to realize the
benefits of strategic and cooperative relationships between buyers and suppliers. This
cooperative stage involves rationalizing the supplier base by utilizing fewer suppliers
and engaging in longer-term contracts. While information is shared with channel
partners as needed, a culture of openness and complete trust and commitment still
does not exist at this level of SCM.