Forthcoming Articles
Sustainable and Competitive? The Dual-Role of Information Systems in Green Supply Chain Operations
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.