The effect of organisational factors on adopting big data analytics in supply chain operation among companies in Saudi Arabia: The moderating role of resistance to change

Abstract

Background: Big data analytics (BDA) is vital for modern supply chain operations. However, implementing BDA requires significant administrative effort to ensure success, as managers and employees may resist change. A study was conducted on large and medium-sized companies in Saudi Arabia to investigate the impact of organisational factors on BDA adoption and identify potential resistance. (hereafter Saudi Arabia).

Objectives: This study investigate how organisational factors influence the adoption of BDA in medium and large supply chain companies in Saudi Arabia. It also explores the moderating role of resistance to change (RTC) in this relationship.

Method: A survey questionnaire was given to 402 supply chain practitioners working in medium and large enterprises (MLEs) in Saudi Arabia as part of a quantitative study. The collected data were analysed using the Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS29.0) and SMART PLS (version 4.0).

Results: The findings indicated that organisational factors (top management support, IT expertise, and organisational resources) insignificantly influenced BDA adoption (p < 0.05). Furthermore, RTC did not moderate the relationship between organisational factors and technology adoption (p > 0.05).

Conclusion: The successful use of BDA is crucial for improving Saudi supply chain operations, with a positive impact on customers, companies, and the country.

Contribution: This study is important for medium and large companies in the Saudi Arabian supply chain. It provides scope for developing innovations in adopting BDA by understanding organisational factors that influence adoption. The results will help push Saudi companies forward in trusting BDA in supply chain operations.