The Impact of Digital Technologies (ERP, Blockchain, IoT) on Supply Chain Visibility in Bangladesh’s RMG Sector (Shin Shin Group).

Abstract

The ready-made garments (RMG) sector is a cornerstone of Bangladesh’s economy, yet it suffers from limited supply chain visibility, which undermines efficiency, traceability, and responsiveness. This study examines how digital technologies specifically Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP), Blockchain, and the Internet of Things (IoT) - can transform supply chain visibility in the context of Shin Shin Group, a leading Bangladeshi RMG firm. Through a mixed-methods approach combining case study analysis, interviews with key stakeholders, and secondary data, the research investigates how these technologies are implemented, their impact on visibility across procurement, production, and logistics, and the barriers to adoption. Findings indicate that ERP systems streamline internal operations by integrating order management, inventory, and production planning, thereby reducing silos and improving real-time data flow. IoT-enabled sensors enhance real-time tracking and monitoring, enabling live reporting of production metrics and shipment status. Meanwhile, blockchain introduces immutable traceability, enabling secure provenance records from raw materials to finished goods. Together, these technologies significantly enhance visibility, reduce lead times, improve quality control, and strengthen accountability across supply chain tiers. However, adoption challenges persist. High infrastructure costs, limited digital literacy among workers, power instability, and resistance from management emerge as major obstacles. Moreover, regulatory and organizational readiness remain underdeveloped, complicating full-scale implementation. Based on the insights gained, this thesis offers strategic recommendations for phased technology deployment, capacity-building programs, and cross-stakeholder collaboration, aimed at maximizing the benefits of digitalization in Bangladesh’s RMG supply chains. In sum, this research contributes to both academic literature and managerial practice by illuminating how modern digital tools can elevate supply chain visibility in a developing country context, while also addressing the practical challenges in scaling these innovations in the RMG industry.