Conceptualizing Supply Chain Resilience in Exogenous Crisis Times: Toward a Holistic Definition

Abstract

AbstractSupply chain resilience has become increasingly crucial in today’s scenario in response to major disruptions that generated huge exogenous crises. This paper investigates the current SCR-related academic literature related to SCR to develop a new holistic definition. A total amount of 214 scientific contributions the last 5 years (i.e., between 2018 and 2022) have been analyzed. Findings revealed four important issues to achieve SCR, i.e., Key resilience attributes, Technology-aided visible SC, Sustainable and measurable SCR practices, and Relationship between SC partners. Leveraging insights gleaned from these critical issues, we have meticulously crafted an updated and comprehensive definition of SCR, by considering the multi-faceted facets that contribute to its holistic understanding. In light of our emerging insights, we suggest a novel approach to fortify organizational supply chain resilience, emphasizing a more holistic perspective. Our recommendations for future research include (1) exploring the integration of emerging technologies like blockchain and artificial intelligence for real-time monitoring to enhance adaptive decision-making in post-COVID-19 supply chains, (2) investigating the strategic role of collaborative networks and information sharing among supply chain partners to enhance agility and responsiveness amidst post-pandemic uncertainties, and (3) analyzing the impact of sustainable and circular supply chain practices on resilience. Findings of the paper and the new holistic definition of SCR have several implications for both academics and managers that are listed at the end of the paper along with limitations of the study and future research avenues.