Robotic Process Automation: A Systematic Review of the Challenges to Implementation from a Logistics and Supply Chain Management Perspective

Purpose: Robotic Process Automation (RPA) has received increasing attention, as it offers various opportunities to automate processes, resulting in improved efficiency and effectiveness. However, the scientific literature indicates a lack of research on how to use RPA advantageously, especially in the area of Supply Chain Management (SCM) and logistics. The authors aim to review this gap by exploring how to facilitate RPA adoption in SCM.
Design/methodology/approach: A structured literature review with a content analysis was conducted to identify challenges to RPA implementation. The authors used the Technology - Organization - Environment (TOE) framework that supports the analysis of technology adoption to systematize the challenges. Finally, recommendations are given on how to overcome these challenges.
Findings: The study illustrates challenges in the dimensions of technology, organization, and environment that organizations need to consider during RPA adoption. It also offers recommendations on how to overcome certain challenges. The findings are then used to devise opportunities for further research.
Research limitations/implications: This study offers potential for further analysis on the design of tasks and processes in SCM, as well as validation of findings and recommendations for business process excellence.
Practical implications: This study offers practitioners insights into the adoption of RPA. The challenges identified should be a focus of attention in RPA implementation projects.
Original/value: This study contributes to academia and practice by examining the challenges to RPA adoption. The results are intended to provide a starting point for facilitating the adoption of RPA beyond simple and repetitive tasks.