Digital transformation : Unlocking supply chain resilience through adaptability and innovation

Aslam, Haris and ur Rehman, Attique and Iftikhar, Anas and Haq, Muhammad Zia ul and Akbar, Usman and Kamal, Muhammad Mustafa (2025) Digital transformation : Unlocking supply chain resilience through adaptability and innovation. Technological Forecasting and Social Change, 219: 124234. ISSN 0040-1625

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Abstract

Recent disruptions have pushed the digitalisation of supply chains to the forefront of business challenges. This research investigates the mechanisms through which digital supply chains foster resilience. Using structural equation modelling, the study draws on two empirical investigations to provide a comprehensive understanding of these dynamics. In Study 1, we explore the role of supply chain innovation as a mediating factor between digital supply chains and resilience. Our findings confirm that digitalisation positively impacts resilience by enhancing supply chain innovation. Study 2 introduces supply chain adaptability as an additional mediating mechanism, uncovering more complex interactions. The results show that digitalisation affects resilience through the sequential mediation of supply chain adaptability and innovation. This model emphasises adaptability's essential role in translating digital advancements into resilient, innovative supply chains. These insights deepen the theoretical understanding of supply chain management amid disruptions and offer practical strategies for developing more resilient and adaptable supply chains in the digital era.