Impact of Digital Transformation on Supply Chain Management in Global Markets

Niamh Kelly

Faculty of Business, Griffith College Dublin,

Dublin, Ireland

Abstract

Digital transformation has emerged as a pivotal force reshaping supply chain management (SCM) in global markets. This research article explores the profound effects of digital technologies, including artificial intelligence (AI), the Internet of Things (IoT), blockchain, and big data analytics, on enhancing supply chain efficiency, resilience, and sustainability. Through a mixed-methods approach, combining a systematic literature review and empirical data analysis from 255 survey responses, this study examines how digital transformation influences supply chain capabilities and competitive performance. Findings reveal that digitalization significantly improves transparency, agility, and cost-effectiveness, while also addressing environmental sustainability. However, challenges such as high implementation costs, lack of standardization, and cybersecurity risks persist. The article provides strategic recommendations for organizations to leverage digital tools effectively and proposes future research directions to address gaps in the literature.

The evolution of digital technologies has significantly transformed supply chain management (SCM) across global markets. Drawing on current literature and real-world examples, the paper highlights improved efficiency, transparency, and responsiveness as key outcomes of digital integration. However, it also addresses the challenges of cyber-security, integration complexity, and workforce readiness. A mixed-method research approach was used, combining survey data from global supply chain managers and secondary analysis of industry reports. The findings confirm that while digital transformation offers substantial benefits, successful implementation depends on organizational readiness, strategic alignment, and stakeholder collaboration. The paper concludes with strategic recommendations for global firms aiming to build resilient, digitally enabled supply chains.

Keywords

Digital Transformation, Supply Chain Management, Global Markets, Artificial Intelligence, Internet of Things, Blockchain, Supply Chain Resilience, Sustainability

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