The impact of advanced manufacturing technology, sensing and analytics capabilities, and planning comprehensiveness on sustained competitive advantage: The moderating role of environmental uncertainty

Abstract

Studies have shown that digital manufacturing is a key factor in sustained competitive advantage (SCA). However, few studies have investigated how SCA is affected by advanced manufacturing technology (AMT), analytics capability (AC), sensing capability (SC), and planning comprehensiveness (PC) in an uncertain environment. We developed a conceptual model based on dynamic capabilities theory and the resource-based view to empirically investigate the effects of AMT, AC, SC, and PC on SCA. In addition, our research model tested whether environmental uncertainty moderated the effects of these factors using data from 200 validated surveys completed by senior managers of firms in the clothing and textile industry in China. Our results revealed that all four factors positively influenced SCA, and that environmental uncertainty positively moderated their impact, supporting our research model. We discuss the theoretical and practical implications of these findings.