Factors affecting the level of effectiveness of communication tools used in Sri Lankan export apparel supply chains

Abstract

The main concern of this research is to examine the factors affecting the level of effectiveness of communication tools used in Sri Lankan export apparel supply chains. Since information is a very critical aspect in the apparel supply chain, communication tools are getting forefront to have a better relationship with both local and international stakeholders. Hence, knowledge in effective communication tools is highly required. As per the findings, meetings, emails, telephone, Skype, video conferences, social media and ERP system are the major communication tools that are used in Sri Lankan export apparel industry. Data was collected through a pilot survey and a secondary survey using questionnaires. Exploratory factor analysis was used to identify six major factors which influence the effectiveness of communication tools that are used in Sri Lankan export apparel supply chain: (1) reliability of information, (2) usage of communication tools, (3) geographical factors, (4) processing time/ time spend to communicate, (5) cost of the communication tool and (6) work schedule of the employee. Since a similar study has not been carried out in this industry with respect to Sri Lankan context, the key findings of this study can act as guidelines for the Sri Lankan export apparel industry to select the most suitable communication tool for different purposes to enhance the performance of supply chain.