A Qualitative Investigation into the Challenges of Implementing Big Data Analytics in Sri Lankan Supply Chain Operations

Articles in Press

Document Type : Research Paper

Authors

Department of Information Management, SLIIT Business School, Sri Lanka Institute of Information Technology, Malabe, Sri Lanka

Abstract

Big data analytics (BDA) has gained immense attention from several industries because of its ability to generate data-driven insights for organizational efficiency. Previous studies have explored the relationship of BDA with firm performance, the benefits of using BDA in supply chain management, and the challenges of successful implementation. Despite recognizing the benefits of BDA and the challenges to implementing it, there is a lack of understanding of ways to address the challenges. Thus, this study primarily investigates the perceptions of supply chain professionals on barriers to BDA implementation and strategies to overcome them. Our findings are based on a qualitative analysis of data gathered from 12 interviews with industry professionals. Through thematic analysis, we identified supply chain professionals' perceptions of barriers, such as financial barriers, organizational culture and change resistance, regulatory and government barriers, human resource expertise, and competitive pressure. For strategies, we recognized building support and consensus, increased awareness and demonstrating value, fostering a culture of support and development, strategic planning, and getting government support in promoting digitalization. The findings of this research will aid industrial managers in understanding the barriers to the implementation of BDA, the benefits of the BDA, and the pathway to build strategies regarding BDA implementation in the manufacturing supply chains in developing countries.

Keywords

References

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Management Science and Information Technology

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Available Online from 11 April 2025

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