Analysis of Service-centric Cluster Supply Chain Alliance: A Case Study of JCH

As a new management pattern, `cluster supply chain' (CSC) can help Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) to face the global challenges through all kinds of collaboration. However, a major challenge in implementing CSC is the gap between the related theories and practices in the field. The recent rapid commercialization and adoption of `service' technologies have driven a process of transforming theories into practices. In an effort to provide a better understanding of this emerging phenomenon, this paper presents the implementation process of CSC in the context of JingCheng Mechanical \& Electrical Holding co., ltd.(JCH) as a case study. The cast study of JCH suggests that the key problems in the practice of cluster supply chain: When do small firms use cluster supply chain to do business? How do small firms use cluster supply chain? Only after clarifying those problems, the actual construction and operation of cluster supply chain does show successful results as it should be.