The impacts of digital and learning orientations on supply chain resilience

Abstract

Purpose

This study quantitatively investigates the impacts of digital and learning orientations on supply chain resilience (SCR) and firm performance (FP), aiming to fill the gaps in understanding their specific impacts in the context of Industry 4.0 developments and supply chain disruptions.

Design/methodology/approach

This study utilized survey techniques and structural equation modelling (SEM) to gather and analyse data through a questionnaire based on a seven-point Likert scale. Hypotheses were formulated based on an extensive literature review and tested using Amos software.

Findings

The study confirms SCR’s significant impact on FP, aligning with existing research on resilience’s role in organizational competitiveness. This study uncovers the nuanced impacts of digital and learning orientations on SCR and FP. Internal digital orientation (DOI) positively impacts SCR, while external digital orientation (DOE) does not. Specific dimensions of learning orientation – shared vision (LOS), open-mindedness (LOO) and intraorganizational knowledge sharing (LOI) – enhance SCR, while commitment to learning (LOC) does not. SCR mediates the relationship between DOI and FP but not between DOE and FP.

Research limitations/implications

This research focuses on digital and learning orientations, recommending that future studies investigate other strategic orientations and examine the specific contributions of various digital technologies to SCR across diverse contexts.

Practical implications

The empirical findings emphasize the significance of developing internal digital capabilities and specific learning orientations to enhance SCR and FP, aligning these initiatives with resilience strategies.

Originality/value

This study advances knowledge by distinguishing the impacts of internal and external digital orientations and specific learning dimensions on SCR and FP, offering nuanced insights and empirical validation.

Citation

Lin, Y., Pang, G., Duan, K., Luo, J., Wang, S. and Qu, J. (2025), "The impacts of digital and learning orientations on supply chain resilience", Industrial Management & Data Systems, Vol. 125 No. 2, pp. 535-574. https://doi.org/10.1108/IMDS-04-2024-0379