Change agents’ cognitive maps of circular supply chain transition : An investigation of barriers, actions, and outcomes - UTU Research Portal

A1 Refereed original research article in a scientific journal

Change agents’ cognitive maps of circular supply chain transition : An investigation of barriers, actions, and outcomes

Authors: Nyffenegger, Roger A.; Zehendner, Axel; Quarshie, Anne M.; Leuschner, Rudolf

Publisher: Elsevier

Publication year: 2024

Journal: Journal of Purchasing and Supply Management

Journal name in source: Journal of Purchasing and Supply Management

Article number: 100906

Volume: 30

Issue: 4

ISSN: 1478-4092

eISSN: 1873-6505

DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.pursup.2024.100906

Web address : https://doi.org/10.1016/j.pursup.2024.100906

Self-archived copy’s web address: https://research.utu.fi/converis/portal/detail/Publication/387227843

Abstract

Integrating circular principles into supply chains (SCs) is a significant challenge for many managers aiming to decouple their organizations’ activities from the use of natural resources and environmental degradation. Despite increasing research focusing on the circular economy (CE), little attention has been given to individuals’ interpretations of the circular transition and their own transition strategies. This interpretivist qualitative study provides insights into the managerial sensemaking of the circular SC transition, including the barriers faced and the strategic actions taken to overcome the barriers and realize desired outcomes. Semi-structured interviews with 19 change agents were combined with a cognitive mapping approach. The individual cognitive structures were synthesized into an overarching sensemaking map that captured the informants’ perceptions and social construction of the circular SC transition. The findings reveal four shared cognitive frames (i.e., the most plausible schemes) held by change agents: (1) SC cooperation, (2) circular business models, (3) circular design, and (4) material choice. Moreover, we develop a framework that highlights how sensemaking contributes to the calibration of cognitive frames and the strategies pursued by individuals. We contribute to the literature by providing insights into change agents’ social construction and perceptions of the circular SC transition and propose key takeaways for practitioners and policymakers.

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Funding information in the publication:
This article is based on Roger Nyffenegger's Master's thesis, which he submitted to the University of St. Gallen (HSG). Roger Nyffenegger would like to thank his supervisors for their support.Anne Quarshie is thankful for funding provided by the Academy of Finland (Profi6/BIODIFORM/Biodiversity and systemic transformation) and the Strategic Research Council (BIODIFUL/Biodiversity Respectful Leadership, project number 345880).