Is there something like the right research design for supply chain studies? I believe there is, and in Research Methodologies in Supply Chain Management it is more than likely that you will find a research approach that will suit your needs. The books is divided into 5 parts, corresponding to 5 types of studies, each with a set of selected articles pertaining to 1. Literature Review, 2. Surveys , 3. Case Studies, 4. Action Research, and 5. Modelling. I like this structuring and each article or sub-chapter is self-contained to some degree and provides valuable insight for both seasoned and budding researchers still fumbling in the dark. I use it as a handbook whenever I start a new project, just to remind myself of the strengths and pitfalls and the to do and not to do of each approach. The book is available as a paperback edition and as a Kindle edition.