Digitalization of the supply chain: transformation factors

Abstract

Purpose There is an increasing interest in the supply chain’s digitalization, yet the topic is still in the preliminary stages of academic research. The academic literature has no consensus and is still limited to research assessing the supply chain’s digitalization of organizations. This study aims to explore the supply chain digitalization drivers to understand the emerging phenomena. More specifically, the authors devised from the literature the most common factors in assessing the readiness in scaling supply chain digitalization. Design/methodology/approach This study followed a five-phased systematic literature review (SLR) methodology in this research: designing, analyzing, conducting, writing and assessing the quality of the review. The SLR is beneficial for justifying future research regardless of the complex process that requires dealing with high-level databases, information filtering and relevancies of the content. Through analysis of 347 titles and abstracts and 40 full papers, the authors showed and discussed the supply chain digitalization: transformation factors. Findings The results generated three main themes: technology, people and processes. The study also generated ten subthemes/primary drivers for assessing the readiness for supply chain digitalization in organizations: IT infrastructure, cybersecurity systems, digitalization reskilling and upskilling, digitalization culture, top management support, digitalization and innovation strategy, integrated supply chain, digital innovation management, big data management and data analytics and government regulations. The importance of each factor was discussed, and future research agenda was presented. Research limitations/implications While the key drivers of the supply chain digitalization were identified, there is still a need to study the statistical correlation to confirm the interrelationships among factors. This study is also limited by the articles available in the databases and content extraction. Practical implications This study supports decision-makers in understanding the critical drivers in digitalizing the supply chain. Once these factors are studied and comprehended, managers and decision-makers could better anticipate and allocate the proper resources to embark on the digitalization journey and make informed decisions. Originality/value The digitalization of the supply chain is more critical nowadays due to the global disruptions caused by the Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic and the surge of organizations moving toward the digital economy. There is a gap between the digital transformation pilot studies and implementation. The themes and factors unearthed in this study will serve as a foundation and guidelines for further theoretical research and practical implications.

Examining the Direct and Indirect Impacts of E-Supply Chain Implementation on Performance: A Collaborative Approach

“…Academics stress that comprehending the ramifications of the E-SC requires a comprehensive approach that takes into account both direct and indirect effects [48] [42]. Research highlights the significance of organizational preparedness and strategic planning from a managerial and operational perspectives in order to fully utilize E-SC technologies [25] [49]. The current research emphasises how E-SC affect organizational performance should be studied both directly and indirectly.…”

Impact of the Digital Supply Chain on Sales and Logistics Performance in the Jewelry Industry. A Case Study of L'AZURDE, Egypt.

“…In investigating the pivotal factors for DSC implementation, it becomes evident that robust information technology (IT) infrastructure and comprehensive cybersecurity systems are fundamental. Aamer et al (2023) declared that 18.38% of the scholars declare that IT infrastructure is recognized as a critical determinant in DSC readiness. Moreover, effective digitization demands substantial investment in suitable, advanced IT infrastructures tailored to the business's maturity level (Yang et al, 2021).…”

“…Furthermore, cybersecurity solutions serve as a protective measure, safeguarding the transmission of data and information within 1306 the supply chain. These solutions simplify the management of stakeholder data and fortify information protection, thus being indispensable in the context of DSC (Aamer et al, 2023).…”

How Does Digital Transformation Improve Supply Chain Performance: A Manufacturer’s Perspective

“…Ultimately, solving these problems requires deeply exploring the relationship between digital transformation and corporate performance. However, until recently, related studies have failed to reveal in detail the role and influence of digital transformation in increasing corporate sustainability [23][24][25][26]. Studies that have found positive effects of digital transformation only verify fragmentary effects such as information sharing, cooperative attitude, cost reduction, and operational efficiency.…”