Artificial Intelligence (AI) has emerged as a transformative enabler for supply chain optimization, offering advanced capabilities in predictive analytics, real-time decision-making, and operational efficiency. However, successful AI integration in supply chain management (SCM) is influenced by multiple interdependent technological, organizational, and governance-related factors. This study aims to identify and structure the key factors affecting AI-driven supply chain optimization in manufacturing industries. A mixed-methods approach was employed. In the qualitative phase, semi-structured interviews with domain experts were conducted to identify critical factors in AI adoption. These factors were then analyzed using Interpretive Structural Modeling (ISM) to develop a hierarchical model of relationships. Subsequently, MICMAC analysis was applied to classify factors based on their driving and dependence power. The results indicate that the technology deployment strategy, governance, compliance, and financial considerations are the most influential independent factors, serving as foundational drivers of AI adoption. Data and system requirements emerged as linkage factors with high driving and dependence power, while operational applications such as demand forecasting and automation were identified as dependent factors. The findings highlight the importance of structured AI strategies and robust data governance frameworks in achieving effective AI-driven supply chain transformation, providing valuable insights for practitioners and policymakers.

The South-West region of Nigeria presents inherent challenges and opportunities that are peculiar to small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and shape their operational dynamics and employee behavior. Hence, this paper aims to investigate the linkage between process integration and employee engagement: a study of SMEs in South-West region of Nigeria. Specifically, it examined the effects of career development workshops, effective communication, and leadership competence on employee commitment. A descriptive survey research design was adopted, with a total of 253 selected registered electrical and electronics stores across the six South-Western states of Nigeria (Lagos, Ogun, Oyo, Osun, Ondo, and Ekiti). 155 participants were administered a structured questionnaire. Data collected was analyzed using PLS-SEM. Findings revealed that effective communication has the strongest effect on employee commitment (β = 0.391, t = 3.837, p < 0.000), followed by leadership competence (β = 0.292, t = 3.165, p < 0.002), and career development workshop (β = 0.201, t = 2.993, p = 0.003). It concluded that process integration is significantly vital for driving employee commitment in selected electrical and electronics SMEs stores in South-West region of Nigeria. It is therefore strongly recommended that, to increase employee commitment among Electronic SMEs, their managers should focus on ensuring that the essential features of process integration, such as leadership competence, effective communication, and career development, are adequately implemented and practiced within the organization.

This is a conceptual theory-building paper that questions the notion of a "trade-off narrative" between sustainable supply chain management. It claims that advanced Information Systems (IS) play a crucial dual function in designing the co-construction of environmental and competitive value. The paper proposes a Dual-Role framework based on an abductive analysis of modern literature, mapping the synergistic impact pathways of these technologies. The framework proposes that the Internet of Things (IoT) allows data-driven closed-loop control, blockchain provides cryptographic trust, Artificial Intelligence (AI) offers predictive intelligence for systemic leanness, and cloud platforms offer orchestration and alignment. The framework results in a series of research propositions that can be tested and specify the likely conditions for this dual value creation. We argue that strategically located IS can transform sustainability from a constraint on operations to a parameter of the design for competitive advantage. This study offers a propositional theory for scholars to guide empirical research, as well as a principled rationale for managers to view digital investments as a foundation for planetary and business resilience.