Implementation barriers of smart technology in Indian sustainable warehouse by using a Delphi-ISM-ANP approach

Abstract

PurposeIn the digitalization era, supply chain processes and activities have changed entirely, and smart technology impacts each sustainable supply chain movement. The warehouse and distribution of various organizations have started adopting smart technologies globally. However, the adoption of smart technologies in the Indian warehousing industry is minimal. The study aims to identify the implementation barriers of smart technology in the Indian warehouse to achieve sustainability.Design/methodology/approachThis study employs an integrated Delphi-ISM-ANP research approach. The study uses the Delphi approach to finalize the barriers identified from the detailed literature review and expert opinion. The finalized 17 barriers are modeled using interpretive structural modeling (ISM) to get the contextual relationship. The ISM method's output and analysis using the analytical network process (ANP) illustrate priorities.FindingsThe study's findings showed that the lack of government support, lack of vision and mission and the lack of skilled manpower are the most significant barriers restricting the organization from implementing smart and sustainable supply chain practices in the warehouse.Practical implicationsThis study would help the practitioners enable the sustainable warehousing system or convert the existing warehouse into a smart and sustainable warehouse by developing an appropriate strategy. This study would also help reduce the impact of different barriers that would strengthen the chance of technology adoption in the warehouses.Originality/valueThe literature related to adopting smart and sustainable practices in the warehouse is scarce. Modeling of adoption barrier for smart and sustainable warehouse using an integrated research approach is the uniqueness of this study that have added value in the existing scientific knowledge.