Unpacking the Drivers, Barriers and Performance Outcomes of Supply Chain Digital Transformation: Towards an Integrative Implementation Framework

Abstract

Digital transformation is fundamentally reshaping supply chain management (SCM), yet existing research remains fragmented across technologies, outcomes and contextual factors. This study systematically synthesises the literature to examine the impacts, drivers and barriers of digital transformation in supply chains and to develop an integrative framework that explains how these elements interact. Following PRISMA guidelines, a systematic literature review of 768 peer-reviewed articles published between 2016 and 2025 was conducted using qualitative synthesis supported by descriptive analysis and concept-driven categorisation. The findings identify competitive pressure, globalisation, customer expectations and sustainability imperatives as dominant drivers of digital transformation, while technological complexity, organisational resistance, resource constraints and strategic misalignment emerge as critical barriers. Overall, digital transformation is shown to enhance supply chain efficiency, agility, resilience and environmental sustainability. Building on these insights, the study proposes a conceptual framework that maps the relationships among drivers, moderating factors and performance outcomes. By integrating drivers, moderators and outcomes into a unified model, this review advances theoretical understanding and offers actionable guidance for practitioners, while delineating key avenues for future research on digital supply chain innovation.