Transformative Power of Generative AI in Supply Chain: Examining different Drivers and Barriers

Abstract

As the capabilities of generative artificial intelligence increases, so does the need for integration into various industries. The purpose of this study was to explore the drivers, barriers, and future direction of integration of generative artificial intelligence in a supply chain industry.

The existing research on generative Artificial Intelligence in the supply chain is very limited and therefore there are many gaps in existing research. From the drivers that push integration to the barriers that serve as a hindrance, there is little available data. We also wanted to understand how this field will develop going forward and the research on this is also limited so there was a need for exploratory research to help close these gaps. To help with this, valance theory and dual factor theory was invoked.

The method used in the study was media discourse analysis, by collecting secondary data theories were made from existing data, while data could come from a large number of differing opinions, expertise and representatives. The data was found online and consisted of videos, articles, and blog posts. By utilizing Gioia’s method, the data collected was coded and used to answer our research questions.

The findings of this study include the drivers, barriers, and future development of the integration of generative artificial intelligence technology into the supply chain, the findings reaffirming the drivers, and barriers found in existing research while offering new insights into the future development as well as drivers and barriers absent from current research.

The study offers both theoretical and practical implications where the research could be used to help close existing gaps, using media discourse analysis, a method that as far as we can tell has never been used in a supply chain and generative AI context. Further it can be used as guides for organizations, regulators, and industry professionals in the supply chain industry.