How does supply chain digitalization affect supply chain transparency? The roles of supply chain collaboration and cross-organizational governance

PurposeNumerous studies have confirmed the potential of supply chain digitalization. However, in practice, supply chain digitalization does not always effectively improve transparency, highlighting the need for an investigation into its mechanisms. This study is based on the resource-based view (RBV), which explains how firms gain a competitive advantage through the optimal allocation of resources and capabilities. RBV offers strong theoretical support for analyzing the complex mechanisms by which supply chain digitalization impacts transparency.Design/methodology/approachThe research data is sourced from 351 Chinese fashion companies. The sample was selected based on the diversity of company size, geographic location and market positioning, covering a broad range from small and medium-sized enterprises to large corporations. Data were collected using a stratified random sampling method, combining surveys and field interviews to ensure the representativeness and reliability of the data.FindingsThe study tests the data hypotheses using structural equation modeling and regression analysis. The findings indicate that supply chain digitalization not only has a direct positive impact on supply chain transparency but also indirectly enhances transparency through supply chain collaboration. Additionally, the study identifies the moderating role of cross-organizational governance in this mechanism, revealing the boundary conditions of the impact pathways.Originality/valueThis study provides practical guidance for firms to enhance supply chain transparency during their supply chain digitalization process. Although the research focuses on the Chinese fashion industry, its findings offer valuable insights for similar industries, such as electronics, in improving supply chain transparency. These findings have broad applicability and significance.