Designing a Productivity Model for an Agile and Digital Supply Chain in the Oil and Gas Industry: A Thematic Analysis Approach

Abdulrasul  Asal; Sadegh Feizollahi; Morteza  Fatehipour

Authors

Abdulrasul Asal Department of Management, Sa.C., Islamic Azad University, Sanandaj, Iran Author https://orcid.org/0009-0000-3981-2565
Sadegh Feizollahi Department of Management, Il.C., Islamic Azad University, Ilam, Iran https://orcid.org/0009-0000-4051-7950
Morteza Fatehipour Department of Management, Sa.C., Islamic Azad University, Sanandaj, Iran Author https://orcid.org/0000-0003-3484-1257

Keywords:

supply chain productivity, agility, digitalization, oil and gas industry, thematic analysis

Abstract

Under conditions of volatility in the global energy market and pressures arising from sanctions, improving supply chain productivity in Iran’s oil and gas industry has become a strategic imperative. This study aimed to design a supply chain productivity model for this industry based on an integrated approach combining agility and digitalization. The research employed a qualitative methodology using systematic thematic analysis based on the six-phase framework developed by Braun and Clarke (2006). The required data were collected and analyzed through 18 in-depth semi-structured interviews with industry experts (11 participants) and academics (7 participants). Based on the findings, a multilayer conceptual model comprising 5 main themes and 13 subthemes was developed. The main themes were: (1) operational agility and resilience, (2) digital integration and data-driven intelligence, (3) human resource and organizational enablers, (4) coordination and collaboration within the supply chain network, and (5) governance and sustainability. The final model demonstrates that achieving sustainable productivity requires the dynamic and systematic interaction of these dimensions. Digital integration and organizational enablers provide the necessary foundation for operational agility and network collaboration, while the entire system is guided within a governance and sustainability framework. This model can provide a framework for planning and evaluating digital transformation and agility initiatives in this strategically important industry.

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