Abstract

Research Background: This thesis explores the critical role of communication networks in building resilient supply chains within distribution channels that can quickly recover from disruptions. It highlights the need for businesses to develop resilient strategies, especially in distribution, to ensure stability, agility, and effective real-time information sharing amidst evolving risks.

Research Problem: This research focuses on advanced communication strategies to boost supply chain resilience, particularly in distribution. Despite existing literature, there’s a gap in empirical research on integrating communication networks into resilience strategies. The study examines technologies like Blockchain, IoT, Cloud Computing, 5G, Artificial Intelligence, and Machine Learning, offering recommendations for companies and policymakers to enhance supply chain resilience.

Research Purpose: The purpose of this study is to determine the extent to which the adoption of advanced communication technologies contributes to supply chain resilience within distribution channels and identify the key organizational factors that help the successful implementation of such networks within distribution channels to increase supply chain resilience.

Research Questions: RQ1. How does the adoption of Advanced communication networks within distribution channels contribute to supply chain resilience?

RQ2. What organizational factors influence the successful implementation of such networks within distribution channels to increase supply chain resilience?

Research Method: This is a qualitative inductive study. It follows the relativistic ontology and the social constructionism epistemology. A qualitative method is used to realize this research, making use of semi-structured open-ended interviews – 11 interviews were conducted, and the data was transcribed and analyzed by thematic analysis using NVIVO software.

Conclusion: Our investigation revealed the dual nature of communication networks, highlighting both their potential to ease distribution processes and the challenges associated with their implementation. Factors such as improved distribution processes, were recognized as facilitating successful implementation whereas factors such as cybersecurity risks and high implementation costs were uncovered as challenges for successful implementation. Our findings suggest that while advanced technologies can enhance supply chain resilience, they also pose risks and complexities that organizations must address.