Supply chain systems maturing towards the Internet-of-Things: a framework

The Internet-of-Things (IoT) concept has been gradually developing, but it is unclear how extensive this concept is adopted within the supply chain domain. We derive an architectural framework to investigate four layers of ICT deployment. This framework enables practitioners and scientist to specify a status quo on different architectural levels and to identify possibilities for further improvement. Four extensive cases are investigated with this framework. One of the important conclusions is that “IoT” like technology and applications are pioneered in research programs, but operational logistic systems in diverse organizations primarily rely on less advanced technology, organizational structures- and work forms. This work can help in identifying gaps where IoT can strenghten future applications.