INFLUENCE OF CLOUD-BASED WAREHOUSE MANAGEMENT SYSTEMS IN OPTIMIZING BUYER–SUPPLIER RELATIONSHIPS: A SYSTEMATIC REVIEW
Creators: name: ONAI CHIFAMBA
name: MUNYARADZI CHIBARO
name: MARIA TSVERE
Publisher: name: Zenodo
Year: 2024
Subjects: Warehouse Management Systems, Buyer-Supplier Relationships, Cloud-Based Warehouse Management Systems, Industry 4.0.

description: Abstract

Purpose: Industry 4.0 is viewed as an important tool for achieving competitive advantage. The purpose of the study was to establish the influence of cloud-based warehouse management systems in optimizing buyer-supplier relationships. Methodology: Kitchenham and Charter’s guidelines on conducting a systematic review served as the direction for this study’s review process. The study examined papers on cloud-based warehouse management systems that were posted on different sites, such as Google scholar, from 2019—2023.The study considered studies from different sectors in different countries. Inclusion and exclusion criterion was used to select the most relevant studies.24 studies were examined. Findings: The study concluded that cloud-based warehouse management systems have benefits and downside risks, as some business functions will have to change to adapt to smart warehousing. The adoption of Industry 4.0 technologies such as cloud-based WMSs enhances traceability and real-time sharing of information between buyers and suppliers. On another hand the study highlights barriers to adoption of cloud based-warehouse management systems such as security threats, insufficient technological infrastructure and government regulations. Implications for theory and practice: The study findings corroborate the Technology – Organization – Environment theory which posits that a technological infrastructure that is scalable may adjust to shifting requirements and business needs, guaranteeing that the system can manage rising data and traffic volumes. The study supports the claim by highlighting insufficient technological infrastructure as a barrier to adoption of cloud-based warehouse management systems. Industries such as small to medium enterprises shows a lower adoption rate of cloud –based warehouse management systems which are likely influenced by lack of technological infrastructure and financial constraints. This calls for partnerships and collaborations among government and stakeholders to promote adoption of these smart technologies. Consistent assessments and monitoring of cloud security protocols ensure ongoing compliance and reduce risks related to data handling and storage. Also there is need to use data analytics to demonstrate benefits of adopting cloud-based warehouse management systems and optimize solutions so as to encourage adoption of these smart technologies. Originality and value: Visibility and traceability has become important for supply chains that are increasingly operating in competitive markets. The current study has tried to answer questions on how cloud-based warehouse management systems impact buyer-supplier relationships and barriers to adoption of these industry 4.0 technologies. Several studies were carried out in developed countries with very little research conducted in developing nations. The research points out the need for increased government support, human capital and financial resources in developing countries to keep abreast of the latest trends. The research will also help to deepen the appreciation of industry 4.0 technologies in enhancing buyer supplier relationships. This study provides insights into barriers that are slowing the adoption rate.