Abstract
The textile and clothing industry faces significant transparency, traceability, sustainability, and counterfeiting challenges. In response to these challenges, this thesis explores the design requirements for a digital product representation in the industry and how Industry 4.0 technologies can support these requirements.
Using a practical, utility-driven, and problem-oriented design science research approach, we created an IT artifact consisting of a layered supply chain model and a digital product representation requirement visualization through two iterations - organizational-focused and expert-focused. We identified and collected technical, stakeholder, and regulatory requirements that represent the complex demands of the industry.
We then assessed these requirements against the capabilities of Industry 4.0 technologies, in our case, blockchain and IoT, to identify potential areas for technological support. Our findings revealed that, while these technologies could cater to some requirements, stakeholder collaboration, regulatory support, and standardization are equally critical but cannot be addressed through technology alone.
Additionally, we highlighted several challenges that need to be considered to successfully implement a digital product representation in the industry’s future, including high investment costs, non-holistic adoption, and interoperability complexities.
In conclusion, our research emphasizes the importance of designing a universally accommodating digital product representation that considers the diverse actors, technological proficiency, and regulatory framework within the textile and clothing supply chain. The insights provided in this thesis can guide organizations and policymakers seeking to implement a digital product representation in the industry to enhance transparency, traceability, sustainability, authentication, and efficiency.
| Uddannelser | Cand.merc.it Business Administration and Information Systems, (Kandidatuddannelse) Afsluttende afhandling |
|---|---|
| Sprog | Engelsk |
| Udgivelsesdato | 2023 |
| Antal sider | 160 |
| Vejledere | Jan Damsgaard |