Supply Chain Technology Research Articles

Analyzing supply chain technology trends through network analysis and clustering techniques: a patent-based study

Analyzing supply chain technology trends through network analysis and clustering techniques: a patent-based study

A Critical Literature Review on Blockchain Technology Adoption in Supply Chains

Inspired by the discontinuation of the blockchain platform TradeLens, co-developed by IBM and Maersk, due to the lack of the involved supply chain stakeholders’ adoption, a critical literature review on the models of supply chain stakeholders’ adoption of blockchain applications was conducted. This review is significant as it provides insights into the exploration of a more universal approach to investigate which factors really influence blockchain adoption, which is a pre-requisite for the technical sustainability of blockchain technology in supply chains. As observed in the review, the technology acceptance model (TAM), the technology–organization–environment (TOE) framework, and the unified theory of acceptance and use of technology (UTAUT) are frequently used in the literature, but little attention has been paid to whether blockchain technology fits the users’ tasks in understanding blockchain adoption in the supply chain. Among the technology adoption theories, task–technology fit (TTF) considers whether a technology fits the tasks, but only two previous studies involved the use of TTF. This study discusses the suitability of these existing models of technology adoption for blockchain applications in supply chains and comes up with a new unified model, namely TOE-TTF-UTAUT. This review also has implications for a more appropriate conceptual research design using mixed methods.

Managerial and Organizational Implications Arising from the Implementation of Blockchain Technology in Supply Chains: An AS-IS and To-Be Analysis

Purpose: The main objective of this research is to highlight the managerial and organizational implications for businesses resulting from the implementation of blockchain logic and technologies. The functionalities of blockchain technologies are compared with the traditional approach to supply chain management to emphasize the impact they can have on managing intra-supply chain relationships and the organizational structure of companies involved in supply channels. Design/methodology/approach: To conduct this study, a conceptual study was carried out, starting from an analysis of the main characteristics of blockchain technologies, to build an AS-IS scenario compared with the TO-BE scenario resulting from the implementation of these technologies within supply chains. To conduct this study, conceptual categories of the viable system approach and process management perspective were utilized. The conceptual analysis was performed using a matrix representation, which correlates material, informational, and financial flows with the dimensions of traceability, transparency, and efficiency, before and after the implementation of blockchains in managing supply chain transactions. Findings: The study highlighted how the principles underlying blockchain can lead to overcoming the traditional indispensable search for trust among supply chain operators. Therefore, through these results, it is possible to hypothesize an improvement in the resilience conditions of companies operating in block–supply chains. Originality/value: This study contributes to investigating the relationship between blockchain and operational consonance among operators in managing interorganizational processes to improve conditions of efficiency, traceability, and transparency, which are functional in the resilience of companies involved in the supply chain compared to the changing dynamics of the context. Research implications: Trustless logic in the implementation of blockchain technologies leads to the configuration of a new concept of trust, connected to the entire supply chain system, as a result of the improvement in the security, visibility, and efficiency conditions of transactions. The increased visibility and transparency developed in block–supply chains prompt all actors involved in the supply chains to rethink information management, given the reduction in informational asymmetries and, thus, the optimization of transaction costs.

The intention of adopting blockchain technology in agri-food supply chains: evidence from an Indian economy

Purpose This paper aims to explore the underlying intention behind using blockchain technology (BLCT) in the agri-food supply chain (AFSC). This is achieved by using a conceptual framework based on technology acceptance models that considers various factors influencing user behavior toward implementing this technology in their practices. Design/methodology/approach The conceptual framework developed is empirically validated using structural equation modeling (SEM). A total of 258 respondents from agri-food domain in India were involved in this survey, and their responses were analyzed through SEM to validate our conceptual framework. Findings The findings state that food safety and security, traceability, transparency and cost highly influence the intention to use BLCT. Decision-makers of the AFSCs are more inclined to embrace BLCT if they perceive the usefulness of the technology as valuable and believe it will enhance their productivity. Practical implications This study contributes to the existing literature by providing thorough examination of the variables that influence the intention to adopt BLCT within the AFSC. The insights aim to benefit industry decision-makers, supply chain practitioners and policymakers in their decision-making processes regarding BLCT adoption in the AFSC. Originality/value This study investigates how decision-makers’ perceptions of BLCT influence their intention to use it in AFSCs, as well as the impact of the different underlying factors deemed valuable in the adoption process of this technology.

Revolutionizing supply chain management: a critical meta-analysis of empowerment and constraint factors in blockchain technology adoption

PurposeThis study conducts a thorough literature review and meta-analysis to explore the adoption of blockchain technology (BCT) in supply chain management (SCM). It aims to identify the potential benefits, challenges, and critical factors influencing the implementation of this technology in supply chains.Design/methodology/approachA systematic analysis of 157 highly cited publications is performed, offering insights into research trends, citations, industries, research methods, and contextual aspects. Thematic analysis is employed to uncover key findings regarding enablers, barriers, drivers, challenges, benefits, and drawbacks associated with BCT adoption in supply chains.FindingsThe analysis highlights the complexities and opportunities involved in adopting BCT in SCM. A proposed model aligns with five dimensions, including inter-organizational, intra-organizational, technological, legal, and to assist businesses in harnessing the potential of BCT, overcoming obstacles, and managing challenges. This model provides practical recommendations for navigating the intricacies of BCT implementation while balancing associated challenges and risks.Practical implicationsOrganizations operating in supply chains can leverage the insights gained from this investigation to position themselves at the forefront of BCT adoption. By implementing the proposed model, they can unlock benefits such as increased transparency, efficiency, trust, and cost reduction.Originality/valueThe novelty of this paper lies in its extensive review of publications on Blockchain Technology adoption in supply chains. It offers insights into various aspects such as enablers, barriers, drivers, challenges, benefits, and drawbacks. Additionally, the paper presents a comprehensive model specifically designed for successful adoption of Blockchain Technology in supply chains. This model addresses multiple dimensions including inter-organizational, intra-organizational, technological, legal, and financial.

Supply Chain 4.0: new Technologies and Their Impact on the Supply Chain

Over the centuries, supply chains have undergone major changes, adapting to the environment and challenges such as: globalization, wars, competition, pandemic, digital revolution, etc., all these together, generating different missions and goals. One of the peculiarities of running a business in the XXI century is the fierce competition between companies, felt at international level. In these conditions, the traditional operations and processes of the supply chain no longer meet the complex requirements of today’s economy, and the implementation of leading-edge solutions is necessary. The use of new technologies in the supply chain can respond quickly to current business demands. Thus, a smart supply chain provides opportunities, creates added value, but also contributes to the creation of a strategic competitive advantage. The aim of this paper is to highlight the supply chain technological transformation possibilities, their benefits, challenges, limits and barriers. The need for knowledge, analysis and implementation of new technologies in supply chains is absolute, dictated by the omnipresent acceleration of change

Determinants of Blockchain Technology Adoption in Agricultural Supply Chain

Blockchain technology adoption in agriculture can bring a win-win situation for all stakeholders in supply chain, which aids in the security of transactions and information in both forward and backward linkages in agricultural supply chain. Furthermore, blockchain platform benefits producers by enhancing their reputation, increasing their competitiveness and reducing fraud by eliminating undesirable practices in the supply chain. This research paper aims to analyze the determinants of blockchain technology adoption in agricultural supply chain. Grey relational analysis is employed to identify the determinant factors of blockchain technology adoption in the supply chain. The factors for blockchain technology adoption in supply chain are identified based on the literature review collected and focus group discussion with experts. Experts are insisted to rate the factors based on the five point likert scale. The findings revealed that data transparency, traceability, interoperability, data immutability and high value pricing, product type, organization trust, and government support can influence the blockchain adoption in supply chain. The findings conclude that priorities must be given to those influential factors which will help the organizational stakeholders in formulating suitable strategy for effectively implementing blockchain technology in the agricultural supply chain.. KEYWORDS :Blockchain technology, Adoption, Factors, Agricultural supply chain, Grey relational analysis.

A Comprehensive Analysis of Logistics Strategy and Cold Chain Technology Innovation –Literature Review (Case Study: Paxel Indonesia)

The country's economic development has a big influence on the growth and contribution of the logistics sector, especially transportation and warehousing, one of which is influenced by shopping behavior and customer lifestyle. One type of logistics distribution pattern is the cold chain, which requires companies to have a logistics strategy and cold chain technology innovation to meet customer requirements. This literature review aims to comprehensively analyze the impact of implementing logistics strategies and the use of technology in cold logistics which is different from dry logistics carried out in one of the logistics service provider companies. Evaluation of the influence of environmental factors, temperature and customer needs on design strategy choices will also be discussed in this paper. Apart from that, the literature review will answer the impact of implementing logistics strategies and supply chain technology on the quality and safety of frozen food products.

The Financial Strategy for the Development Of Industry 4.0 in the Countries with Developing Economy

Industry 4.0 incorporates cutting-edge digital technology into the supply chain and manufacturing operations to build a more intelligent, networked system. 4.0, which uses digital technology to automate and simplify processes, is the financial strategy for creating and digitizing the supply chain. Issues confronting the supply chain sector may have an answer thanks to financial and economic development strategy technology. It is a safe, decentralized digital ledger that can transparently and impenetrably record data and transactions. With the use of this technology, a common supply chain information database that is available to everyone engaged in the financial plan for the nation's development can be established. A few advantages of implementing financial and economic development strategy technology in the supply chain sector for financial and economic development strategy are increased traceability and transparency, decreased fraud and counterfeiting risk, faster and more secure payment processing, and enhanced cooperation amongst supply chain participants. Studies on applying financial and economic development strategy technology in supply chains are still scarce. Work presents a thorough step-by-step model based on institutional and resource-based innovation diffusion theory to fill this research vacuum. The model is validated with data from Pakistan and the United Arab Emirates, revealing significant differences between the variables driving both countries' innovation and adoption stages of financial and economic development strategies. The study provides insightful information on how financial and economic development strategies are employed in developing countries' financial strategies.

Influence of Supply Chain Technological Integration on the Performance of Formal Manufacturing Firms in Mombasa County, Kenya

Technological integration within the supply chain has emerged as a pivotal determinant for the growth and competitiveness of manufacturing companies amidst the rapidly evolving business landscape. However, in Kenya, numerous firms encounter challenges in embracing and assimilating the latest technological advancements into their supply chain operations. This study aimed to assess the impact of supply chain technological integration on the performance of formal manufacturing firms in Mombasa County. Grounded on the Innovation Diffusion Theory, the research targeted 50 general procurement managers, 100 warehouse managers, and 100 general operation managers across 50 manufacturing enterprises. Utilizing the Yamane formula, a sample size of 152 respondents was determined, and data was collected through questionnaires. Statistical analysis was conducted using SPSS. The findings show that by enhancing operational efficacy and efficiency, the integration of supply chain technology significantly enhances overall business performance. Consequently, the study concludes that supply chain technological integration plays a positive role in influencing firm performance among formal manufacturing enterprises in Mombasa County. To optimize performance, it is recommended that firms invest in robust and reliable technologies. Furthermore, there is a need for additional research to explore the impact of supply chain technological integration on firm performance across diverse industries and regions within Kenya.

Evaluation of critical success determinants to the implementation of additive manufacturing technology in the spare parts supply chain: a grey causal modelling approach

PurposeAdditive Manufacturing technology (AMT) is swiftly gaining prominence to induce automation and innovation in manufacturing systems. It holds immense potential to change supply chain dynamics by providing the possibility of printing objects on demand. This study thus formulates and analyzes the framework to incorporate AMT to handle the spare parts supply chain management (SPSCM) in capital-intensive industries by identifying and assessing the critical success factors (CSFs).Design/methodology/approachAssessment of the CSFs is performed using the novel Grey Causal Modeling method (GCM) with the objective of making SPSCM resilient and efficient. GCM conducts causal analysis by taking into consideration cause, effects, the objectives, and the situations.FindingsFindings indicate that; Logistics Lead Time (SD4), Time to manufacture (SD3), Management Support (SD11), and Risk Management (SD20) are the most prominent causal factor having a maximum impact when incorporating AMT in SPSCM. The results also reveal that the performance of manufacturing organizations that adopt AMT is substantially influenced by internal and external factors such as Management Support (SD11) and Government Regulations (SD16).Research limitations/implicationsThis research provides valuable information for getting the global spare parts supply chain equipped for the post-COVID age, where digital technologies such as AMT will be fundamental for bolstering supply chain resilience and efficiency.Originality/valueThis research proposes a framework for performance assessment when incorporating AMT in SPSCM. Study also demonstrates methodological application of novel Grey Causal Modelling technique using a real case in a spare parts manufacturing industry in India.

Blockchain Based Deep Learning for Sustainable Agricultural Supply Chain Management

Food supply chain (FSC) is an important part of the food supply chain. It is essential to establish food supply chains that are open to the public, accountable for their actions, and available in real time. The development of blockchain technology has led to an increase in the amount of data that is passed between customers and businesses, as well as the data that are passed between them. Blockchain technology is a new type of information technology that has the ability to be decentralized, safe, and trusted, which makes it an excellent option for storing sensitive data. The purpose of this study is to evaluate how blockchain with deep learning is used to find the quality evaluation of food supply chain technology. The use of BC has improved the accuracy of food traceability, while the utilization of Deep Random Forest (DRF) has boosted the efficacy of computing and shortened the reaction time. The research compares the quality evaluation system that is based on BC-DRF with some of the most common existing methods in terms of accuracy, reaction time, and sensitivity, when applied to a variety of block sizes.

Effective cost management strategies in global supply chains

This review paper explores effective cost management strategies within global supply chains, highlighting the necessity for businesses to adapt and innovate in response to complex logistical operations, economic fluctuations, and geopolitical risks. It delves into strategic sourcing and procurement, inventory management techniques such as Just-In-Time (JIT) systems, logistics and transportation optimization, and the pivotal role of technology and automation in enhancing efficiency and reducing costs. The paper identifies gaps in current literature, particularly the need for more research on sustainable practices and risk management strategies. Recommendations for practical implementation are provided, emphasizing flexibility, resilience, and the importance of leveraging technology. Future research directions are suggested to further understand the dynamics of global supply chain cost management and the integration of sustainability practices. Keywords: Global Supply Chain, Cost Management, Strategic Sourcing, Inventory Management, Supply Chain Technology, Risk Management.

Mapping the barrier and strategic solutions of halal supply chain implementation in small and medium enterprises

PurposeThis study aims to identify the challenges, promote respective solutions and construct strategies for the implementation of the halal supply chain in Indonesia’s small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).Design/methodology/approachThis research used the analytic network process in nine respondents categorised into three groups of relevant stakeholders: government, academia and industry.FindingsSeven essential criteria for the implementation of a halal supply chain in SMEs were identified, namely, the process, packaging, storage, transportation, fundamental aspects, supporting policy and technology. Notably, the high cost of adopting blockchain technology was the most crucial issue, particularly in SMEs.Practical implicationsThrough the findings, several critical factors to consider in the implementation of halal supply chains for SMEs were identified. The investment in halal supply chain technology, which incurs a high cost carried by entrepreneurs, is a burden for SMEs. For this reason, further studies are required to formulate and develop cost-effective halal supply chain technology for SMEs.Originality/valueTo the best of the authors’ knowledge, this research is the first attempt of comprehensively mapping the barriers and developing strategic solutions to implement the halal supply chain by Indonesia’s SMEs.

Managerial approaches to blockchain technology adoption in the rail freight sector: An emerging market perspective

Modern supply chains demand adaptability driven by the globalization of production and markets, the fourth industrial revolution (4IR) and recent events such as the unexpected closure of the Suez Canal, the Russia-Ukraine war, and the Covid-19 pandemic. Investing in digital supply chain technologies boosts end-to-end visibility, mitigates risk, and improves the resilience of supply chains. Many disruptive technologies are currently changing the business landscape in Africa. However, Africa has traditionally been an adopter rather than a pioneer of technologies for business development. Although there has been an increase in the use of blockchain technology in various industries, there is still a challenge of understanding how the technology can be applied in the South African rail supply chain context. Thus, it is crucial to investigate how managers perceive the technology and how this understanding affects the decision to use the technology in the rail freight Container Corridor. A gap exists between the understanding, organizational support and benefits of the technology and its application within the corridor. A case study approach was utilized to collect primary data obtained through a structured self-administered survey questionnaire. The main findings of the study were that the understanding of blockchain influenced managers perceptions and willingness to adopt the technology. While the railway operator was committed to implementing blockchain, other operational constraints and inefficiencies still present on the corridor were impediments to further investigation. Furthermore, potential benefits and challenges, costs and resources required as well as the impact on current operations and workings were highlighted by management as important decision-making factors. The study provides valuable insights into disruptive technologies applications within the transport supply chains. It substantiates the significance of how managers view blockchain as a technology to address various challenges as well as enhance operations within the South African freight rail sector.

Benefits and challenges with blockchain technology in global food supply chains: views from the practice

PurposeAlthough technologies such as blockchain (BCT) hold great potential to improve global food supply chains (GFSCs), our understanding of BCT use in GFSCs remains limited. The purpose of this study is to broaden BCT discussions by exploring its benefits and challenges across the entire GFSC.Design/methodology/approachQualitative interviews with 23 industry experts were used to identify and comprehend the nuanced issues with BCT application in GFSCs.FindingsThe study identifies 21 perceived benefits and challenges with BCT use in GFSCs, including the benefit of broader data incentives beyond BCT use and the challenge of reluctance to assume dominant roles among the GFSC actors.Originality/valueWhile prior studies mostly focused on BCT use for traceability and food safety in the GFSC midstream, this study extends the scope to include upstream and midstream actors. It highlights socio-economic benefits for traditionally disadvantaged farmers in the upstream and normative challenges to its adoption in the GFSC midstream and downstream. It also identifies three paradoxes emerging with BCT use in the GFSCs including the paradoxes of food technology, transparency and de-centralization.

Adoption Factors of Blockchain in Indian Agriculture Supply Chain Management Analysis using EFA

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 10pt; line-height: 12pt; text-align: justify;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: 'times new roman', times, serif; font-size: 14pt;">The global agricultural supply chain grapples with inherent challenges, including opacity, inefficiency, and ethical concerns, necessitating innovative solutions, particularly within Indian Agriculture Supply Chain Management. Despite these challenges, a notable research gap emerges due to the limited exploration of adoption factors specific to the Indian agricultural context. To bridge this gap, a comprehensive investigation is initiated to delve into the nuanced dynamics of blockchain technology adoption in the Indian agricultural supply chain. The primary aim of this study is to provide insights into these adoption dynamics, employing a three-stage methodology. Starting with an extensive literature review to identify key adoption factors, the study then distributed a well-crafted questionnaire to 200 respondents, yielding 150 complete and analyzable responses. The chosen methodologies, including a one-sample t-test and exploratory factor analysis, allow for a quantitative assessment of the significance of various factors. The study's findings reveal crucial dimensions influencing blockchain adoption, such as perceived benefits, ease of use, trust, efficiency, ethical considerations, data security, integrity, regulatory compliance, and collaboration and stakeholder engagement, providing a comprehensive understanding of the adoption landscape. In conclusion, this research significantly contributes to comprehending the nuanced adoption dynamics of blockchain technology in the Indian agricultural supply chain, supported by a substantial sample size and robust methodological choices. The implications extend to stakeholders navigating the evolving agricultural supply chain, offering valuable insights for future research, policy considerations, and practical strategies, with a central focus on fostering transparency, efficiency, and ethical standards to address global agricultural supply chain challenges.</span></p>

Back to a resilient future: Digital technologies for a sustainable supply chain

Economic, political, and societal pressure forces companies to act more sustainably. New legislation and regulation such as the Supply Chain Act, mandates companies to take responsibility for their actions as well as those of their supply chain collaborators. Meeting these requirements demands transparency. Digital technologies along the supply chain have the potential to collect diverse types of data and raise awareness for sustainability purposes. For example, data obtained from multiple supply chain participants can be used to estimate CO2 emissions or optimize resource utilization. Following guidelines for systematically reviewing a body of literature, this paper therefore investigates the distribution of digital technologies in supply chains for sustainability. Based on a collected corpus of 70 articles, we identify seven key digital technologies and indicate how they can be employed to contribute to economic, environmental, and social sustainability. The results show that (1) blockchain is the most used technology for sustainability within the supply chain and (2) the majority of articles on digital technologies in our corpus address the social dimension of sustainability. Our findings advance the understanding of how digitalization can transform supply chains into more sustainable entities and help practitioners decide which technology fits a certain sustainability dimension.

Unlocking the potential of blockchain technology in enhancing the fisheries supply chain: an exploration of critical adoption barriers in China

The application of blockchain technology holds significant potential for improving efficiency, resilience, and transparency within the Fisheries Supply Chain (FSC). This study addresses the critical barriers hindering the adoption of blockchain technology (BT) in the Chinese FSC, recognizing the unique challenges posed by its intricacies. Through a comprehensive literature review, fourteen Critical Barrier Factors (CBFs) were identified, and a grey Delphi method was employed to distill this set. Five pivotal CBFs emerged, including "Regulatory Compliance," "Cost of Implementation," and "Complex Supply Chain Network". A subsequent grey Decision-Making Trial and Evaluation Laboratory (DEMATEL) analysis revealed the causal relationships among these factors, categorizing them into effect and cause groups. "Regulatory Compliance," "Cost of Implementation," and "Complex Supply Chain Network" were identified as primary influencing factors demanding attention for effective BT integration in the FSC. The findings serve as a valuable resource for FSC stakeholders, assisting in prioritizing efforts to address these barriers. The discerned causal relationships provide guidance for managers in optimizing resource allocation. Ultimately, this research advocates for the adoption of blockchain technology in the fisheries supply chain to enhance overall performance and operational efficiency.

Research on pricing strategy of dual-channel supply chain based on blockchain technology under carbon trading

In the context of the dual-carbon goal, it is of great significance to study the application of blockchain technology in the dual-channel supply chain under the carbon trading mechanism for the carbon emission reduction of enterprises and the overall profit maximization of the supply chain.In this paper, two decision models of the supply chain under secondary carbon trading are constructed to analyze the two cases of whether to adopt blockchain technology. Stackelberg model is used to study the impact of blockchain technology on the pricing decision of the dual-channel supply chain under carbon trading, and the two models are compared and analyzed.According to the research results, after the application of blockchain technology, wholesale prices, direct sales prices, retail prices, and profits of retailers and manufacturers have increased compared with the non-use of blockchain technology, which is conducive to promoting the development of carbon emission reduction for manufacturers.