The transformative role of Industry 4.0 in supply chains: Exploring digital integration and innovation in the manufacturing enterprisesÂ
The transformative role of Industry 4.0 in supply chains: Exploring digital integration and innovation in the manufacturing enterprisesÂ
This study explores the role of Industry 4.0 (I 4.0) technologies in enhancing supply chain performance (SCP), with a particular focus on the mediating functions of Integrated Digital Supply Chain (IDSC), Innovative Supply Chain Practices (ISCP), and supply chain visibility (SCV). The research aims to provide a deeper understanding of how digital transformation reshapes supply chain operations by fostering connectivity, efficiency, and adaptability. A structured survey was conducted among 364 supply chain professionals, and the collected data were analyzed using Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM) to evaluate the proposed conceptual model. The empirical findings confirm that I 4.0 adoption positively influences IDSC, ISCP, and SCV, leading to improved SCP. Notably, ISCP and SCV emerge as crucial enablers, reinforcing the transformative power of technological advancements in supply chain management. These insights highlight the importance of real-time digital integration, continuous innovation, and enhanced visibility in leveraging I 4.0 for competitive advantage. However, as the study is limited to a specific geographical and industrial context, further investigations are required across different sectors and regions to validate the findings. From a practical perspective, organizations should strategically invest in digital infrastructure, encourage innovation-driven practices, and strengthen supply chain transparency to maximize the benefits of I 4.0 technologies. This research contributes to the literature by offering a multi-dimensional perspective on the interplay between digital transformation and supply chain effectiveness, particularly within a developing economy.
Corporate Social Responsibility for Sustainable Development: A Systematic Review of Business Contributions to Address Global Challenges
This systematic review aims to analyze the contributions of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) to sustainable development by examining how businesses address critical global challenges such as zero hunger, health and well-being, gender equality, clean water and sanitation, sustainable cities, life on land, and peace and justice. Purpose: The study seeks to identify gaps in the existing literature and propose future research directions. Method: A comprehensive literature search was conducted across multiple bibliometric databases, yielding 2,520 studies. After applying stringent inclusion and exclusion criteria, 100 relevant studies were selected for analysis. The review synthesized empirical and theoretical findings, focusing on the effectiveness of CSR initiatives and their alignment with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Results: The findings reveal that while CSR initiatives significantly contribute to addressing global challenges, there are critical gaps in their long-term sustainability and effectiveness, particularly in developing regions. The review highlights the importance of integrating stakeholder engagement, addressing systemic inequalities, and measuring the impact of CSR practices to enhance their effectiveness. Contributions: This study provides valuable insights into the role of CSR in fostering sustainable development, contributing to existing theories and offering practical applications for industry and policymakers. It identifies underexplored areas for future research, emphasizing the need for robust frameworks that ensure CSR initiatives are equitable, inclusive, and sustainable.
The role of digital supply chain practices in enhancing firm performance: insights from the manufacturing sector of Bangladesh
Purpose: This study examines the impact of digital supply chain practices (DSCP) on firm performance (FP) in the context of Bangladesh's manufacturing sector, with a focus on supply chain responsiveness (SCR) and customer development (CD) as mediating factors.
Design/methodology/approach: A quantitative research design was employed, utilizing partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) to analyze survey data collected from 438 participants representing manufacturing firms in Bangladesh. The model evaluates the direct effects of DSCP on FP, as well as the mediating roles of SCR and CD.
Findings: Results indicate that DSCP positively and significantly impacts FP, with SCR and CD serving as effective mediators in this relationship. The study demonstrates that digital integration in supply chains enhances responsiveness and customer engagement, ultimately leading to improved organizational performance. Through increased operational efficiency, streamlined logistics, and improved decision-making, the results show that Digital Supply Chain Practices (DSCP) are essential for boosting company performance. By empowering businesses to quickly adjust to market needs, minimize interruptions, and maximize resource usage, DSCP improves supply chain responsiveness and, in the end, increases agility and competitive advantage. Additionally, by enhancing engagement, trust, and service quality, DSCP improves customer development, which supports long-term business success and sustainability in Bangladesh's manufacturing industry.
Research limitations/implications: The study is limited by its focus on the manufacturing sector in Bangladesh, which may affect the generalizability of findings to other industries or regions. Future studies should examine additional variables, such as organizational culture and market conditions, that may influence DSCP's effectiveness.
Practical implications: The findings provide actionable insights for managers seeking to enhance performance through digital supply chain integration. Investing in digital tools can improve responsiveness and customer satisfaction, driving organizational success in competitive markets.
Social implications: This study underscores the potential of digital transformation to improve supply chain efficiency, fostering economic growth and sustainability in emerging economies like Bangladesh.
Originality/value: This research contributes to the limited literature on digital supply chains in developing economies, offering empirical evidence of their role in improving firm performance.
The mediating role of attitude towards the technology in shaping artificial intelligence usage among professionals
This study aims to explore the factors influencing the adoption of artificial intelligence (AI) among professionals in Bangladesh, with a particular focus on the mediating role of attitudes toward AI in the adoption process. The research is grounded in the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT). Data were collected through a structured questionnaire distributed to 551 professionals across various sectors in Bangladesh, yielding 330 usable responses. The data were analyzed using Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM) to test the proposed hypotheses. The quantitative approach facilitated a comprehensive examination of direct and mediated relationships between constructs. The findings indicate that performance expectancy, effort expectancy, social influence and facilitating conditions significantly influence behavioral intentions to adopt AI. Attitudes toward AI were found to mediate the relationship between these factors and the intention to use AI. Notably, performance expectancy, social influence and facilitating conditions had the strongest effects on behavioral intention, while effort expectancy was also important predictors. The study is limited by its reliance on self-reported data, which may be subject to social desirability bias. Future research could explore longitudinal designs and additional factors such as organizational culture and environmental influences. The findings provide actionable insights for policymakers and organizational leaders to develop targeted strategies that promote AI adoption among professionals in developing countries. Understanding AI adoption in a developing country can help bridge the digital divide and promote inclusive technological growth. This study contributes to the literature by integrating UTAUT in a developing country context, highlighting the mediating role of attitudes in AI adoption.
The Mediating Role of Supply Chain Responsiveness in the Relationship Between Key Supply Chain Drivers and Performance: Evidence from the FMCG Industry
Goal: This study examines the relationships among key supply chain drivers supply chain agility (SCA), supply chain visibility (SCV), supplier collaboration (SC), and technology integration (TI) and their impact on supply chain performance (SCP), emphasizing the mediating role of supply chain responsiveness (SCR) in the FMCG sector in Bangladesh. By providing empirical insights into these interactions, the study aims to enhance both academic discourse and practical strategies for optimizing supply chain efficiency in a rapidly growing industry.
Design/methodology/approach: A quantitative research design was employed, utilizing a structured questionnaire distributed among FMCG companies in Bangladesh. Out of 360 distributed questionnaires, 217 responses were collected, with 198 valid responses used for analysis. Structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) via Smart PLS 4 was applied to test the proposed relationships. The study assessed the measurement model for validity and reliability before evaluating the structural model to examine direct and mediating effects.
Findings: The results confirm that SCA and SCV significantly impact SCR, which in turn enhances SCP. While SC and TI do not have direct effects on SCP, they exert significant influence when mediated by SCR. These findings highlight the critical role of responsiveness in strengthening the effectiveness of key supply chain drivers in FMCG firms.
Practical implications: The study provides actionable insights for FMCG firms aiming to improve supply chain performance by enhancing agility, visibility, and responsiveness. Investments in digital integration and real-time monitoring can strengthen these relationships and drive operational excellence.
Social implications: By improving supply chain responsiveness, FMCG firms can enhance service efficiency, reduce lead times, and better meet consumer demands, ultimately contributing to a more resilient supply chain ecosystem in Bangladesh.
Originality/value: This study offers novel insights into the mediating role of SCR in supply chain management, particularly within an emerging market context. It expands existing literature by integrating responsiveness as a key factor in performance enhancement.
Limitations: The study is limited to the FMCG sector in Bangladesh and relies on cross-sectional data. Future research should explore longitudinal effects and comparative analyses across industries.
A Systematic Literature Review on Sustainability Integration and Marketing Intelligence in the Era of Artificial Intelligence
The purpose of the study is to explore Artificial intelligence (AI) integration into sustainable marketing techniques highlights a transformational potential, combining modern technology with the urgent needs of sustainability. This article thoroughly examines how AI plays a crucial role in improving marketing intelligence by enabling more efficient and socially responsible marketing tactics that support sustainability goals.
Method: The study examines how AI-driven insights and analytics enhance decision-making processes, improve customer engagement, and increase the impact of marketing campaigns on environmental and social outcomes by reviewing existing literature and practices. The conversation delves into the difficulties and moral aspects involved in using AI in marketing, such as issues related to data privacy, algorithmic bias, and the importance of a strategic framework that focuses on sustainable development goals.
Results: The investigation shows a promising yet intricate marketing intelligence environment, where AI is seen as a crucial tool for balancing economic goals with the need for environmental sustainability and social responsibility. The research stresses the importance of continuous research, multidisciplinary teamwork, and policy creation to maximize the impact of AI on shaping sustainable practices in marketing intelligence.
This study provides valuable contributions to the scholarly discussion around sustainable marketing and artificial intelligence, while also offering practical guidance for professionals operating in this dynamic commercial sector.
Supply chain performance in the age of Industry 4.0
Goal: This study investigates the impact of Industry 4.0 adoption on supply chain performance in Bangladesh’s manufacturing sector, emphasizing the mediating roles of digital supply chain integration, supply chain innovation, and supply chain visibility.
Design/methodology/approach: A quantitative research design was employed, utilizing a structured questionnaire distributed to 570 manufacturing professionals in Bangladesh, with 350 valid responses collected. Structural equation modeling (SEM) using SmartPLS was applied to analyze the data and test the hypothesized relationships.
Findings: The findings reveal that Industry 4.0 adoption significantly enhances digital supply chain integration (DSCI), supply chain innovation (SCI), and supply chain visibility (SCV), which collectively improve overall supply chain performance. Specifically, Industry 4.0 adoption strengthens DSCI by enabling real-time communication, reducing process fragmentation, and supporting more efficient decision-making. It also fosters SCI by driving innovative practices, adaptability, and continuous improvement within the supply chain. Furthermore, Industry 4.0 adoption improves SCV, enhancing traceability, transparency, and risk management. These mediating factors demonstrate the critical role of Industry 4.0 technologies in achieving superior supply chain outcomes.
Research limitations/implications: The study's limitations include the use of convenience sampling and data from a single industry sector within a developing country, which may limit the generalizability of the findings. Future research could explore additional variables and contexts to further validate these results.
Practical implications: The study provides actionable insights for manufacturing firms in developing economies on leveraging Industry 4.0 technologies to enhance supply chain performance. It also offers guidance for policymakers in supporting digital transformation initiatives.
Social implications: By highlighting the benefits of digital supply chain integration, the study contributes to broader societal goals of economic development and industrial competitiveness in emerging markets.
Originality/value: This study is among the first to empirically examine the impact of Industry 4.0 adoption on supply chain performance in Bangladesh, providing valuable insights for both practitioners and researchers.
Unlocking Sustainability through Supply Chain Visibility
Goal: This research delves into sustainable supply chain management within the context of manufacturing companies in Bangladesh, aiming to unravel the complexities and dynamics of supply chain visibility (SCV), connectivity, and their influence on economic, social, and environmental performance.
Design/Methodology/Approach: Employing a contingent Resource-Based View perspective, the study develops a hierarchical model, formulates hypotheses, and conducts analyses using Smart PLS 4. It explores the interplay between supply chain connectivity, information sharing, and product complexity in influencing sustainable supply chain performance.
Findings: The study reveals that supply chain connectivity positively impacts information sharing, leading to enhanced SCV. SCV, in turn, positively influences economic, social, and environmental performance. Product complexity is identified as a moderating factor in this relationship.
Research Limitations/Implications: While the findings offer valuable insights, the study's focus on manufacturing companies in Bangladesh implies contextual limitations. Future research could explore diverse settings and delve deeper into the specific mechanisms driving these dynamics.
Practical Implications: This study offers actionable insights for manufacturing firms in Bangladesh, emphasizing the strategic adoption of advanced IT infrastructure to bolster supply chain connectivity. By fostering a culture of real-time information sharing through ICTs, companies can optimize operational efficiency. The research also underscores the importance of tailored approaches to product complexity, providing practical guidance for navigating diverse product portfolios. These practices collectively contribute to improved economic, social, and environmental performance, positioning companies as agile and responsible players in the global supply chain.
Social Implications: The study underscores the broader social implications of sustainable supply chain practices, emphasizing the need for responsible and transparent operations that balance economic prosperity, environmental responsibility, and social considerations.
Originality/Value: This research contributes to the existing body of knowledge by advancing our understanding of sustainable supply chain dynamics, particularly in emerging markets. It offers original insights into the contingent relationships between supply chain connectivity, information sharing, product complexity, and sustainable performance.
A systematic review on exploring the influence of Industry 4.0 technologies to enhance supply chain visibility and operational efficiency
This systematic review investigates the implications of Industry 4.0 technologies on supply chain visibility and operational efficiency. The primary aim is to discern the impact of technological integration on contemporary supply chain dynamics. Methods: A comprehensive search strategy identified 65 pertinent studies published between 2015 and 2023. The review adheres to systematic methodologies, employing the Critical Appraisal Skills Programme framework for quality assessment. Data synthesis incorporates qualitative and quantitative analyses to distill key themes and patterns. Results: The review unveils the pivotal role of information visibility in fortifying supply chain outcomes, emphasizing the need for a dual investment strategy encompassing technological solutions and a collaborative organizational culture. Regional variations in supply chain practices, insights from humanitarian supply chains, and the influence of environmental factors on agility broaden the understanding of Industry 4.0 implications. Organizations are urged to adopt a context-specific, adaptive approach, recognizing the significance of intangible assets and tailoring strategies to local contexts for optimal supply chain performance. This systematic review contributes a nuanced understanding of Industry 4.0’s transformative potential in supply chain management, emphasizing the interplay between technology, organizational culture, and regional contexts.
Exploring the Potential of the Blue Economy: A Systematic Review of Strategies for Enhancing International Business in Bangladesh in the context of Indo-Pacific Region
This systematic review aims to provide a methodical analysis of the Blue Economy in the Indo-Pacific region, particularly from the perspective of Bangladesh, focusing on its growth trajectory, key stakeholders, policy frameworks, technological advancements, trade and investment trends, as well as challenges and opportunities for international business expansion. The methods employed a comprehensive search of electronic databases, and inclusion and exclusion criteria were applied to identify relevant studies for analysis. The results revealed that from 2000 to 2020, the Blue Economy sectors of the country, such as fisheries, aquaculture, maritime transportation, and tourism, saw notable development. International development agencies, corporations, academic institutions, governments, and civil society organizations are some of the major players in Blue Economy projects. The policy frameworks that facilitate the development of the Blue Economy include integrated ocean management, blue growth initiatives, maritime security and governance, and resilience and adaptation to climate change. Innovation and expansion in the Blue Economy sectors have been fueled by technological breakthroughs, such as autonomous underwater vehicles, renewable energy projects, remote sensing technologies, and marine biotechnology. Rising demand for sustainable goods and services, technical advancement, and regional collaboration have all contributed to an increase in trade and investment in Blue Economy industries internationally. The study concludes that there is significant potential for the Blue Economy in the Indo-Pacific region to drive economic growth, promote social progress, and ensure environmental sustainability. However, challenges such as regulatory complexity, access to finance, inadequate infrastructure, and environmental degradation need to be addressed to fully realize this potential. Addressing these challenges requires coordinated efforts from governments, businesses, academia, civil society organizations, and international development agencies, along with a focus on sustainable and inclusive development practices.
Quantifying the influence of supplier relationship management and supply chain performance
Purpose: This study explores the impact of Supplier Relationship Management (SRM) practices on supply chain performance, with a focus on cost efficiency, within the dynamic context of Bangladesh. The purpose is to elucidate the relationships between SRM practices, specifically Supplier Collaboration, Supplier Development, Supplier Evaluation and Selection, and Long-Term Supplier Relationships, and their influence on cost efficiency within supply chains.
Design/Methodology/Approach: A quantitative research approach was employed, utilizing regression analysis and correlation analysis to analyze data collected through a structured survey from 270 Participants within Bangladesh’s Manufacturing and Service Sectors. The research adopted a cross-sectional time horizon, providing a snapshot view of the relationships between SRM practices and cost efficiency.
Findings: The findings reveal that Supplier Collaboration and Long-Term Supplier Relationships significantly and positively influence cost efficiency within the supply chains of Bangladeshi organizations. These SRM practices collectively contribute to approximately 64.2% of the variance in cost efficiency, emphasizing their critical role in optimizing supply chain performance.
Research Limitations/Implications: Limitations of this study include its cross-sectional nature and the focus on a specific set of SRM practices. Future research can explore additional SRM dimensions and employ longitudinal approaches for deeper insights.
Practical Implications: Practitioners can leverage the study's findings to enhance supply chain performance by implementing holistic SRM strategies, fostering collaborative supplier relationships, and nurturing long-term partnerships with suppliers.
Social Implications: This research contributes to the broader economic landscape of Bangladesh by highlighting the importance of SRM practices in enhancing cost efficiency, which can ultimately lead to economic growth and competitiveness.
Originality/Value: This study extends the understanding of SRM practices by examining their applicability and significance in an emerging market like Bangladesh. It underscores the originality and value of SRM as a strategic imperative for organizations operating in diverse contexts.
A Systematic Review of the Causes and Consequences of Price Hikes in Bangladesh
This systematic review aims to examine the causes and consequences of price hikes in Bangladesh, with a particular focus on their policy implications. Methods: A comprehensive search of electronic databases was conducted, and inclusion and exclusion criteria were applied to identify relevant studies for analysis. Results: The causes of price hikes in Bangladesh were found to encompass global oil prices, government policies, supply chain inefficiencies, and lack of competition. The consequences of price hikes included decreased purchasing power, reduced living standards, increased poverty, and adverse effects on investment and employment. Household welfare was negatively impacted, and businesses relying on imported raw materials or energy were affected. The author concludes that to address the issues stemming from price hikes, policymakers should consider implementing strategies to control inflation, promote competition, enhance supply chain efficiency, and manage government spending. By incorporating these policy implications, Bangladesh can mitigate the adverse effects of price hikes, leading to enhanced economic stability and wellbeing.
Predicting Adoption Intention of ArtificialIntelligence- A Study on ChatGPT
The objective of this research is to study the factors that influence the adoption behaviour of ChatGPT among professionals in Bangladesh. This study investigates the adoption intention of ChatGPT by using the modified Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT) model. This model is used as a theoretical framework to analyse the many aspects that exert effect on the adoption process. The study was administered to a sample of 350 professional knowledge-workers using an online questionnaire. The data analysis was performed using PLS-SEM. The findings of the research provided a significant understanding of the determinants that influence the desire to adopt and the actual use of ChatGPT. The study highlights the significance of strengthening behavioral intentions, emphasizing performance benefits and building trust, and creating facilitating conditions to promote adoption and utilization of ChatGPT among Professionals in Bangladesh. The research contributes to the understanding of factors influencing the adoption and usage behavior of ChatGPT and offers practical implications for organizations and policymakers to maximize the benefits of artificial intelligence applications in the context of Bangladeshi Professionals. The study's limitations include its exclusive focus on Bangladeshi professionals, reliance on selfreported data, and oversight of ethical and privacy concerns. This research is one of the first attempts to elucidate the factors influencing the acceptance of ChatGPT among professionals in Bangladesh, using the modified UTAUT-2 model.