A survey on the role of pharmaceutical supply chain actors in digital innovation

The pharmaceutical supply chain is crucial for ensuring timely access to medications and patient care. To address challenges and improve efficiency, organizations are increasingly investing in digital technologies such as blockchain, drones, and artificial intelligence. However, the integration of these technologies faces challenges, particularly related to resource scarcity for digitalization, cultural resistance within organizations, skill gaps, and data security concerns. Collaborative approaches among pharmaceutical supply chain partners can help overcome these challenges and accelerate digital transformation. Despite the strategic importance of digital technology adoption, research has primarily focused on understanding relationship dynamics rather than collaborative initiatives among pharmaceutical supply chain partners to enhance digital technology adoption. An exploratory survey was conducted in this study to assess the degree of digital innovation adoption within pharmaceutical supply chain operations and provide insights into the specific contributions of four key pharmaceutical supply chain actors in the adoption of artificial intelligence, drones, and blockchain. The findings indicate a greater adoption of artificial intelligence compared to drones and blockchain. Technology providers play a central role in facilitating digital technology adoption. This study identifies key supportive initiatives such as unified data exchange platforms, pilot tests, synergies with complementary technologies, and identification of trusted technology providers. The regression analysis suggests a positive correlation between the adoption of artificial intelligence, blockchain, and drones, with research centers emerging as key supporting actors of technological advancement within the pharmaceutical supply chain. Overall, results highlight the importance of understanding barriers and supportive actions across the PSC and offer practical guidance for managers navigating the digitalization process, emphasizing the adoption of impactful yet challenging technologies, i.e. artificial intelligence, blockchain, and drones.