Exploring the Impact of Business Intelligence (BI) for Decision Making Within Supply Chain Processes and Their Influence on Supply Chain Performance.

Abstract

The dynamic business environment of today is one of constant competition and that necessitates that the businesses that operate therein be able to create and maintain competitive advantage. Business Intelligence (BI) has emerged as a critical resource for organizations striving to improve their decision-making processes through data-driven insights When effectively integrated, with supply chain management processes, BI can strengthen coordination, visibility and responsiveness thus improving supply chain outcomes. This research is at the intersection of BI and supply chain performance, and it investigates the application of this within the manufacturing sector in Nigeria where supply chains are constricted by infrastructural and systemic challenges. The research aims to examine the influence BI has through the lenses of information sharing, connectivity, and decision-making processes and how that influences integration and performance. A quantitative approach is adopted, using structural equation modelling to analyse survey data collected and test research hypotheses. The complete and usable data was collected from 205 supply chain professionals in Nigeria. The Key findings of the research show indicate a significant positive relationship between business intelligence capabilities and Connectivity and Information sharing as well as Business intelligence having a significant and positive influence on supply chain process integration, which in turn improves overall performance. These findings underscore the strategic role of data-driven decision-making in enhancing supply chain outcomes, particularly in emerging economies.