A A Ab b bs s st t tr r ra a ac c ct t tThis paper discusses evidence from field studies undertaken to investigate the responsiveness of the order fulfilment process in a number of companies. The evidence is analysed in the context of the literature on responsiveness and related areas such as time-based competition. Similarities and differences are analysed across a number of industrial sectors with respect to order fulfilment processes and the interpretation and significance of responsiveness. Generic factors that influence different types of companies are identified. Four components of responsiveness -stimuli, awareness, capabilities and goals -emerge from an analysis of the literature. The field and case study evidence allows the development of more precise definitions and descriptions of each of these components. The study also allows a generic responsiveness framework to be developed that incorporates both strategic and operational viewpoints. The need for more field studies on responsiveness is noted. More work is advocated on the assessment and measurement of responsiveness and on developing appropriate responsiveness interventions, particularly with respect to the order fulfilment process.

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Logistics and supply chain management has become a competitive tool in many industries in Thailand. Supply chain perspective has led the industry to see through the process integration from upstream to downstream. In Thailand, healthcare supply chain has only been introduced to hospitals. Operations and coordinations across players have still been neglected. The supply chain concept for this industry is in a very early stage. It is evidenced that healthcare industry in Thailand still suffers from inefficient process, inconsistent and inaccurate data information. Lacking of transparency throughout the chain makes it difficult to track and trace patient data and product data. Furthermore, each player in healthcare supply chain, manufacturers, wholesalers, distributors, healthcare providers, tends to develop its own data communicating language. Therefore it discourages the player to communicate and share information with its partner. The lack of integrity in supply chain has become a facilitating factor for the growing problem of counterfeiting. It is undeniable that an influx of counterfeit drug affects both public and private sectors negatively. This problem not only leads to economic loss but also has a negative impact on patient safety in Thailand. The purpose of this paper is to review problems that occurred in healthcare area regarding to supply chain management and identify challenges. It is found that standardised drug coding, operational re-engineering and implementing information technology are promising performance improvement in healthcare supply chain. The paper develops a framework for healthcare supply chain improvement in Thailand. It urges both policy makers and implementers to realize national health problems as well as identify rooms for further research and improvement.

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