Enablers And Barriers of Logistics Digitalization In Enhancing Supply Chain Performance: A Case Study Of the Maintenance Department in The Ethiopian Ministry of National Defense, Logistics Main Department
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Date
2026-10
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Addis Abeba Universty
Abstract
In a dynamic environment, organizations must continuously optimize operations to ensure long-term resilience and asset readiness. Changing from traditional, manual
workflows toward integrated digital systems is key to achieve best performance. Historically, reliance on decentralized databases and manual tracking has limited
operational visibility, and leads to systemic inefficiencies. In modern logistics, eliminating these foundational bottlenecks is a strategic necessity for any institution
aiming to optimize performance. This study tried to identify enablers and barriers of logistics digitalization and pinpoint their impact on Supply Chain Performance (KPIs)
within the Maintenance Department of the Ethiopian Ministry of National Defense (EMNoD) Logistics Main Department. During the study the researcher adopted
descriptive and explanatory research design to utilize quantitative approach. The primary data was collected from the census sample of 165 personnel working in the
Technical Maintenance, Supply and Inventory departments using structured questionnaires. Descriptive statistics, Pearson correlation and multiple linear
regressions were performed using SPSS software to test individual and framework hypotheses. Descriptive analysis indicated critically low digital adoption rates (Mean <
1.76) with severely depressed supply chain performance metrics, especially with visibility and cost-effectiveness (Mean = 1.59). On the contrary, institutional barriers, such as
financial costs and lack of specialized training, were heavily reported (Mean > 4.0). The correlation and regression modeling verified that the integrated framework accounts for
54.4% of the total variance in supply chain performance (R2 = 0.544, F(8, 156) = 13.061, p < .001). Top Management Commitment (β = 0.465, t = 6.964, p < .001) was
the second strongest statistically significant predictor after Technological Infrastructure (β = 0.576, t = 8.321, p < .001). In conclusion, optimization of supply chain performance
of the maintenance department depends on the foundation of technological infrastructure combined with commitment of top management. EMNoD defense logistics department
must allocate specific budget for building strong ICT infrastructure and updated tracking systems, enforce strict change management systems , and introduce a centralized digital
operations dashboard to merge isolated data pockets into a unified visible workflow.
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Keywords
Logistics Digitalization, Supply Chain Performance, Military Maintenance, Technological Infrastructure, Top Management Commitment, EMNoD.