International Journal of Physical Distribution & Logistics Management

Durach, Christian F.; Gutierrez, Leopoldo

2024 International Journal of Physical Distribution & Logistics Management

doi: 10.1108/ijpdlm-01-2024-0031

This editorial for the 6th World Conference on Production and Operations Management (P&OM) 2022 Special Issue delves into the transformative role of advanced artificial intelligence (AI)-driven chatbots in reshaping operations, supply chain management and logistics (OSCM). It aligns with the conference’s theme of exploring the intersection between P&OM and strategy during the Technological Revolution.Design/methodology/approachUtilizing a conceptual approach, this paper introduces the “ERI Framework,” a tool designed to evaluate the impact of AI-driven chatbots in three critical operational dimensions: efficiency (E), responsiveness (R) and intelligence (I). This framework is grounded in disruptive debottlenecking theory and real-world applications, offering a novel structure for analysis.FindingsThe conceptual analysis suggests immediate benefits of chatbots in enhancing decision-making and resource allocation, thereby alleviating operational bottlenecks. However, it sees challenges such as workforce adaptation and potential impacts on creativity and sustainability.Practical implicationsThe paper suggests that while chatbots present opportunities for optimizing operational processes, organizations must thoughtfully address the emerging challenges to maintain productivity and foster innovation. Strategic implementation and employee training are highlighted as key factors for successful integration.Originality/valueBridging the gap between the burgeoning proliferation of chatbots and their practical implications in OSCM, this paper offers a first perspective on the role of AI chatbots in modern business environments. By providing insights into both the benefits and challenges of chatbot integration, it offers a preliminary view essential for academics and practitioners in the digital age.

Núñez-Merino, Miguel; Maqueira-Marín, Juan Manuel; Moyano-Fuentes, José; Castaño-Moraga, Carlos Alberto

2024 International Journal of Physical Distribution & Logistics Management

doi: 10.1108/ijpdlm-02-2023-0065

The purpose of this paper is to explore and disseminate knowledge about quantum-inspired computing technology's potential to solve complex challenges faced by the operational agility capability in Industry 4.0 manufacturing and logistics operations.Design/methodology/approachA multi-case study approach is used to determine the impact of quantum-inspired computing technology in manufacturing and logistics processes from the supplier perspective. A literature review provides the basis for a framework to identify a set of flexibility and agility operational capabilities enabled by Industry 4.0 Information and Digital Technologies. The use cases are analyzed in depth, first individually and then jointly.FindingsStudy results suggest that quantum-inspired computing technology has the potential to harness and boost companies' operational flexibility to enhance operational agility in manufacturing and logistics operations management, particularly in the Industry 4.0 context. An exploratory model is proposed to explain the relationships between quantum-inspired computing technology and the deployment of operational agility capabilities.Originality/valueThis is study explores the use of quantum-inspired computing technology in Industry 4.0 operations management and contributes to understanding its potential to enable operational agility capability in manufacturing and logistics operations.

Phraknoi, Nichapa; Stevenson, Mark; Jia, Meng

2024 International Journal of Physical Distribution & Logistics Management

doi: 10.1108/ijpdlm-04-2023-0134

The purpose of this study is to define and investigate the governance requirements of supply chain finance (SCF).Design/methodology/approachA qualitative analysis of 849 news articles published in UK newspapers (2000–2022) using the Gioia method.FindingsSCF governance relies on developing capacities for reflexive scrutiny at two stages: (1) prior to entering into an SCF relationship and (2) during its operation. Based on the notion of SCF as a complex adaptive system, we theorise SCF governance requirements as a dual-layered semipermeable boundary. The semipermeability of the two layers allows for a dynamic exchange between the SCF system and its environment. The first layer is the capacity to selectively enable or control the entry and access of certain actors and practices into the SCF system. The second layer is a capacity for ongoing scrutiny of the SCF operation and its development. Further, we identify five aspects of governance to be enabled, i.e. enhancing adaptability, building confidence, improving efficiency, advancing technology and promoting transparency; and four aspects to be controlled, i.e. preventing abuse of power, curbing fraud risk, constraining operational risk and restricting risky extensions to SCF practices.Practical implicationsOur dynamic framework can guide supply chain (SC) members in making decisions about whether to participate, or continue to operate, in an SCF relationship. Moreover, the findings have implications for policymakers and authorities who oversee entry/access and the involvement of SCF providers, particularly, fintech firms.Originality/valueThe study contributes to both the SC and governance literature by providing a systematic analysis of what SCF governance has to accomplish. Our novel contribution lies in its analysis of SCF governance based on a complex adaptive system approach, which expands the existing literature where SCF is described in rather static terms. More specifically, it suggests a need for a dynamic duality of SCF governance through the semipermeable boundary that selectively enables and controls certain SCF actors and practices.

Idug, Yavuz; Gligor, David; Porchia, Jamie; Niranjan, Suman; Manuj, Ila; Nowicki, David R.

2024 International Journal of Physical Distribution & Logistics Management

doi: 10.1108/ijpdlm-01-2023-0056

Drawing on the social identity theory, this paper explores the impact of rider–driver ethnicity match on the driver’s expected ride satisfaction and willingness to perform, and rider’s trust on the driver.Design/methodology/approachThe study relies on scenario-based online experiments with 291 ride-hailing drivers and 282 riders in the USA.FindingsThe findings indicate that ethnicity match between ride-hailing drivers and riders positively impact driver’s ride satisfaction and willingness to perform, and rider’s trust in the driver. The study also revealed a significant positive moderation effect of ethnic identity on the relationship of ethnicity match and those constructs.Practical implicationsWhile it may be challenging to influence an individual’s level of ethnic identity, managers can take steps to educate and train their employees regarding the impact of ethnic identity and discrimination, with a particular focus on those individuals who possess a strong sense of ethnic identity.Originality/valueThe findings of this research provide theoretical contributions to the existing literature on ride-hailing services and adds to the limited stream of logistics research that examines the impact of ethnicity on ride-hailing operations.