Optimizing supply chain excellence: Unravelling the synergies between IT proficiencies, smart supply chain practices, and organizational culture

This study aims to investigate the impact of information technology and supply chain practices on supply chain excellence in the retail sector, with a particular focus on understanding the mediating and moderating effects amidst the challenges posed by COVID-19. This study offers novel insights into the complex interplay between information technology, supply chain practices, and organizational culture in the context of the automotive retail sector. It underscores the pivotal role of this triad in navigating the unprecedented challenges and uncertainties of the modern business environment, providing a blueprint for attaining supply chain resilience and excellence. A survey was conducted involving 203 questionnaires distributed to 12 automotive retail companies in Dubai. The responses were analyzed using Smart PLS software and structural equation modelling to explore the intricate relationships between information technology, supply chain practices, organizational culture, and supply chain excellence. The results confirm that information technology and supply chain practices significantly influence supply chain excellence. Organizational culture was found to have a notable moderating effect, indicating that the alignment of culture with technological and procedural advancements is crucial in achieving superior supply chain performance. The study is confined to the automotive retail sector in Dubai, limiting the generalizability of the findings. Future research can expand to other sectors and geographical areas to provide a more comprehensive insight into the studied relationships. For businesses, especially amidst challenges like COVID-19, aligning information technology and supply chain practices with organizational culture is paramount. The findings suggest that a harmonious integration can lead to enhanced supply chain excellence, offering a competitive edge in the rapidly evolving digital landscape.