Digital transformation: Unlocking supply chain resilience through adaptability and innovation

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. • Digital supply chains boost resilience by streamlining and speeding up response. • Digital tools drive innovation, which in turn improves supply chain resilience. • Adaptability helps turn digital investments into long-term supply chain resilience. • Digitalisation leads to adaptability, then innovation, resulting in resilience. • Innovation and adaptability bridge digitalisation and resilience in supply chains.