Several studies also examined the relationship between supply chain strategy
and external environment. Christopher (2000) argued that an agile supply chain
is needed in less-predictable environments where demand is volatile and the requirement for variety is high, whereas lean works best in high volume, low variety,
and predictable environments. McKone-Sweet and Lee (2009) and Sun, Hsu, and
Hwang (2009) also provide evidence of a significant relationship between supply
chain strategy and environmental uncertainty.
In summary, environmental uncertainty influences the development of both
competitive and supply chain strategies. Hitt, Ireland, and Palia (1982) concluded