Resilient by Design: A Supply Chain Digitalization Journey

Abstract

In an era where supply chain disruptions have become increasingly relevant due to geopolitical and environmental factors, resilience has emerged as a critical focus for organizations worldwide. This is particularly true in the pharmaceutical sector, where ensuring an uninterrupted supply of medical products is not only a business necessity but also a moral imperative, given the direct impact on patients’ health and well-being.

This thesis presents the development of a digital tool designed to enhance the resilience of AstraZeneca’s supply chain, employing a design thinking approach. The tool leverages simulation and business intelligence, providing a versatile platform for conducting stress tests and evaluating response mechanisms across a spectrum of scenarios. This capability is instrumental in refining business continuity plans and informing strategic decisions on disruption response and capacity investments.

While the tool was initially conceived to address the specific needs of AstraZeneca, its architecture is inherently generic and modular. This deliberate design choice ensures that the tool can be seamlessly adapted and scaled for use across various industries, transcending the initial scope of application. Additionally, the tool lays a solid foundation for future developments in the realm of supply chain digital twins.

The thesis also contributes a comprehensive framework for boosting supply chain resilience through the lens of digitalization. It offers a strategic blueprint that organizations can adopt to proactively navigate and mitigate the intricacies of global supply chain disruptions.