A Multi-Criteria Decision-Making Framework for the Adoption of Emerging Technologies in Cold Chain Management
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.31181/jidmgc11202521Keywords:
Cold Chain, Logistics, Technology selection, SITDE, RAM, p, q-Quasirung Orthopair Fuzzy Sets, Industry 4.0Abstract
The fact that operations and business models in cold chain logistics have become more complex than in the past due to digital transformation, disruptive developments in the Industry 4.0 process, and increasing pressures in the context of sustainability and green policies necessitates the use of advanced technologies to ensure efficiency, transparency, and sustainability. This study developed a multi-criteria decision-making-based framework to evaluate the adoption of new and advanced technologies related to cold chain logistics. In this context, four alternative solutions—IoT-based sensor systems, blockchain-based traceability platforms, cloud-based management software, and AI/machine learning-supported forecasting and optimization tools—were examined within the framework of eleven criteria. These criteria include installation cost, data security, traceability capability, ease of use, integration potential, energy consumption, system reliability, compliance with standards, scalability, environmental impact, and stakeholder acceptance. The findings show that the C10 Environmental Impact, C8 Compliance and Standards, and C9 Flexibility and Scalability criteria are the prominent ones for determining the most appropriate technology, while A1 IoT Sensor Systems have been chosen as the top-priority alternative that should be adopted and integrated into business models. Ultimately, a thorough robustness check was conducted to verify the validity and reliability of the model proposed in this study.
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Copyright (c) 2025 Ömer Faruk Görçün, Sarfaraz Hashemkhani Zolfani, Željko Stević, Erfan Babae Tirkolaee, Hande Küçükönder (Author)
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