Big data and big disaster: a mechanism of supply chain risk management in global logistics industry

Abstract

PurposeAlthough big data may enhance the visibility, transparency, and responsiveness of supply chains, whether it is effective for improving supply chain performance in a turbulent environment, especially in mitigating the impact of COVID-19, is unclear. The research question the authors addressed is: How do logistics firms improve the supply chain performance in COVID-19 through big data and supply chain integration (SCI)?Design/methodology/approachThe authors used a mixed-method approach with four rounds of data collection. A three-round survey of 323 logistics firms in 26 countries in Europe, America, and Asia was first conducted. The authors then conducted in-depth interviews with 55 logistics firms.FindingsIn the first quantitative study, the authors find mediational mechanisms through which big data analytics technology capability (BDATC) and SCI influence supply chain performance. In particular, BDATC and SCI are two second-order capabilities that help firms develop three first-order capabilities (i.e. proactive capabilities, reactive capabilities, and resource reconfiguration) and eventually lead to innovation capability and disaster immunity that allow firms to survive in COVID-19 and improve supply chain performance. The results of the follow-up qualitative analysis not only confirm the inferences from the quantitative analysis but also provide complementary insights into organizational culture and the institutional environment.Originality/valueThe authors contribute to supply chain risk management by developing a three-level hierarchy of capabilities framework and finding a mechanism with the links between big data and big disaster. The authors also provide managerial implications for logistics firms to address the new management challenges posed by COVID-19.

Digitalization and third-party logistics performance: exploring the roles of customer collaboration and government support

“…On the other hand, recent studies have argued that digitalization brings challenges to business operations. Many firms suffer from value appropriation caused by investing in digitalization (Li, 2022; Li et al. , 2022a, b).…”

Complementary and contingent value of SMEs' data capability and supply chain capability in the competitive environment

“…However, some views in current research are inconsistent concerning the connection between big data and performance (Li et al ., 2023). In addition, previous data capability-related research has tended to ignore SMEs and their environments, leaving gaps in the research stream.…”

Supply chain digitalization and performance improvement: a moderated mediation model

“…Although the existing literature highlights the importance of supply chain digitalization, the issue over whether digitalization will assist or pose hurdles for supply chain management is debatable (Li et al , 2022a). Some scholars contend that supply chain digitalization captures a wide range of information from both upstream and downstream processes, which enables efficient interaction, communication, and collaboration in real time.…”