Navigating Disruptions: A Multiple Case Study on the Role of AI in Enhancing Supply Chain Resilience

Abstract

Today's business environment is marked by disruptions, making supply chain resilience more crucial than ever. Technological advancements have evolved faster than their implementation rate, despite research indicating that AI enhances supply chain resilience and offers a competitive advantage. Although interest in supply chain resilience and AI has grown, there is a lack of research on how AI contributes to resilience across industries. Thus, this study aims to investigate how two MNCs in the automotive and pharmaceutical industries have implemented and see AI boosting their supply chain resilience, highlighting the differences by examining facilitators and challenges. To fulfill this purpose, a qualitative method with an abductive approach was used, creating a conceptual framework to illustrate theoretical models before, during, and after a disruption. Based on twenty semi-structured interviews, the results showed that companies face different facilitators and challenges depending on product characteristics and regulations. Overall, common challenges in implementing AI are data quality, regulations, and human capabilities. Supply chain visibility was identified as the most important facilitator and potential outcome of AI integration, yet it remains unattainable today. Proactive strategies were seen as more crucial than reactive ones, and resilience is an ongoing effort that companies must continually cultivate and enhance.