To better understand the advantages, challenges, and best practices involved for middle market companies operating international supply chains, the National Center for the Middle Market, in partnership with The Ohio State University Fisher College of Business Center for International Business Education and Research (CIBER), interviewed 406 middle market supply chain leaders and decision-makers working in companies with active international supply chains. The researchers crafted the survey questions specifically to explore company performance and supply chain practices, to assess the current landscape of international supply chain management, and to evaluate factors influencing supply chain decisions. The research looked at the financial products and financial flows needed to support international supply chains as well as the talent aspects and challenges involved in successfully conducting business internationally.
Respondents answered the survey either as a company that purchases goods and materials from international suppliers or as one that sells to international customers. Respondents from companies that both purchase and sell answered the survey based on the activity with the higher volume. Participants completed the self-administered online survey between December 8 and December 22, 2023. The project was awarded by the US Department of Education to Fisher College of Business as part of the CIBER designation.