Barriers to Digital Supply Chain Transformation in the Garment Manufacturing Sector: A Henry Garrett Ranking Approach
Author : Senthil S, Pramila C and Jenifer Vasanth
Abstract :
The garment manufacturing sector plays a crucial role in global trade and employment, particularly in developing economies like India. In recent years, the adoption of digital supply chain technologies such as the Internet of Things (IoT), Artificial Intelligence (AI), and blockchain has become vital for improving operational efficiency, transparency, and competitiveness. However, despite their transformative potential, many garment units face significant challenges in implementing these technologies. This study aims to identify and analyze the key obstacles that hinder digital transformation in garment manufacturing units, with a focus on enterprises in Tirupur, Tamil Nadu. Using a descriptive research design and Henry Garrett Ranking Method, data were collected from 120 respondents representing small, medium, and large garment units. The challenges assessed include infrastructural limitations, financial constraints, skill shortages, resistance to change, and policy-related barriers. Findings reveal that integration problems with existing ERP or legacy systems ranked as the most critical challenge, followed by lack of technical skills among employees and high initial investment costs. Conversely, technology interoperability issues ranked the lowest. The study highlights that both technological and organizational readiness significantly influence digital adoption success. The results emphasize the need for strategic interventions through government incentives, capacity-building programs, and technology partnerships. By addressing these barriers systematically, garment units can enhance supply chain agility, sustainability, and resilience in an increasingly digitalized global market.
Keywords :
Digital, Manufacturing, Supply Chain, Internet of Things, Artificial Intelligence.
