Supply chain management and Industry 4.0: conducting research in the digital age

Abstract

Purpose – Industry 4.0 is bringing fundamental changes to how business operates, including how the supply chains are managed. The purpose of this paper is to compile a set of recent articles focusing on emerging topics on supply chain management (SCM) in the digital age and to highlight a future research agenda for supply chain digitalization. Design/methodology/approach – The accepted articles in the Special Issue used a variety of methodologies to answer research questions related to SCM in the digital age. Findings – The findings in the accepted articles provides interesting perspectives at different levels – from a holistic supply chain view to specific aspects of digital supply chains. These findings are valuable and applicable in various research contexts. Along with the accompanying editorial, these articles offer directions for a future research on studying the pressing issues in SCM. Research limitations/implications – All of the four articles have significant implications to researchers who intend to understand and study emerging supply chain phenomenon related to the digital transformation with a proactive approach. Practical implications – From a practical standpoint, these articles offer helpful thoughts and ideas about digital supply chain transformation. Specifically, effective data analytics is a core factor that will reshape future supply chains. Originality/value – Each of the articles takes a different approach to address an important aspect of digital supply chain management research and provides unique perspectives.