The Role of Digitalization During Supply Chain Disruptions: Lessons from the Experiences of Family-Owned Austrian Firms During the COVID-19 Pandemic

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic strained global supply chains, and companies faced numerous production, logistics, or material management problems. It is claimed that the digitalization of supply chains can have the potential to make supply chains more resilient to interruptions and disruptions. This article focuses on describing the experiences of three large Austrian family-owned business during the supply chain disruptions caused by the pandemic and the Russia -Ukraine war. This assessment is done from the perspective of the supply chain leaders in the organization. We provide insights on what worked and what did not for these firms and what lessons we can take away from their experiences.