Data Science, Predictive Analytics, and Big Data: A Revolution that Will Transform Supply Chain Design and Management

Journal of Business Logistics, Vol. 34[2], Forthcoming

15 Pages Posted: 16 Jun 2013 Last revised: 9 Jul 2013

See all articles by Matthew A Waller

Matthew A Waller

Sam M. Walton College of Business

Stanley E. Fawcett

Weber State University

Date Written: 2013

Abstract

We illuminate the myriad of opportunities for research where supply chain management intersects with data science, predictive analytics, and big data, collectively referred to as DPB. We show that these terms are not only becoming popular but are also relevant to supply chain research and education. Data science requires both domain knowledge and a broad set of quantitative skills, but there is a dearth of literature on the topic and many questions. We call for research on skills that are needed by SCM data scientists and discuss how such skills and domain knowledge affect the effectiveness of a SCM data scientist. Such knowledge is crucial to developing future supply chain leaders. We propose definitions of data science and predictive analytics as applied to supply chain management. We examine possible applications of DPB in practice and provide examples of research questions from these applications, as well as examples of research questions employing DPB that stem from management theories. Finally, we propose specific steps interested researchers can take to respond to our call for research on the intersection of supply chain management and DPB.

Keywords: Data science, predictive analytics, big data, logistics, supply chain management, design, collaboration, integration, education

Suggested Citation

Waller, Matthew Alan and Fawcett, Stanley E., Data Science, Predictive Analytics, and Big Data: A Revolution that Will Transform Supply Chain Design and Management (2013). Journal of Business Logistics, Vol. 34[2], Forthcoming, Available at SSRN: https://ssrn.com/abstract=2279482

Matthew Alan Waller (Contact Author)

Sam M. Walton College of Business ( email )

University of Arkansas
Fayetteville, AR 72701
United States
479-5758741 (Phone)

Stanley E. Fawcett

Weber State University ( email )

3801 University Circle
Ogden, UT 84408
United States

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