Relationship Models


The concept describes the type of connections and associations between buyers and suppliers, and discusses some of the relationship models and their advantages and weaknesses.

Technique Overview

Relationship Models Definition

Relationship models describe the types of connections/associations between buyers and suppliers, along with the interactions which occur over time as part of these relationships (Carr and Pearson, 1999). These models typically focus on the initial formation of relationships as well as on the relationship maintenance (Bensaou, 1999). Relationship models help buyers and suppliers understand ways to maximise value, secure mutual benefits, align performance and strategic objectives and, when necessary, terminate a relationship (Bensaou, 1999; Forker and Stannack, 2000).

Relationship Models Description *

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Business Evidence

Strengths, weaknesses and examples of Relationship Models *

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Business Application

Implementation, success factors and measures of Relationship Models *

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Professional Tools

Relationship Models videos and downloads *

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Further Reading

Relationship Models web and print resources *

Relationship Models references (4 of up to 20) *

  • Bensaou, M. (1999) Portfolio of Buyer-Supplier Relationships. Sloan Management Review, Vol. 40(4), pp.35-44.
  • Burnes, B. and Anastasiadis, A. (2003) Outsourcing: A Public-Private Sector Comparison. Supply Chain Management: An International Journal, Vol. 8(4), pp.355-366.
  • Campbell, P. and Pollard, W.M. (2002) Ending a Supplier Relationship. Inside Supply Management, September, pp.33-38.
  • Caniels, M.C.J. and Gelderman, C.J. (2005) Purchasing Strategies in the Kraljic Matrix: A Power and Dependence Perspective. Journal of Purchasing & Supply Management, Vol. 11, pp.141-55.

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