Abstract
Advanced digital technologies, such as the Internet of Things, blockchain, big data analytics and augmented reality, are gradually transforming the way multinational firms do business. Due to the extent of this transformation many scholars argue that the integration of these technologies marks the commencement of the fourth industrial revolution (Industry 4.0). However, the question how these advanced technologies impact international business activities needs further attention. To this end, we adopt a multidisciplinary approach to review the related literature in international business (IB), general management, information systems, and operations research. We include the two latter fields, because advanced technologies have received more attention in these bodies of literature. Based on our analysis, we discuss the implications of these technologies for international business. Further, we highlight the drivers of technology utilisation by multinational firms and likely outcomes. We also provide future research avenues.
| Original language | English |
|---|---|
| Article number | 101967 |
| Pages (from-to) | 1-17 |
| Number of pages | 17 |
| Journal | International Business Review |
| Volume | 31 |
| Issue number | 4 |
| Early online date | 9 Dec 2021 |
| DOIs | |
| Publication status | Published - 1 Aug 2022 |
Keywords
- advanced technology
- industry 4.0
- digitalization
- global value chains
- international business
- Information and communication technology (ICT)
- internet
- artificial intelligence (AI)
- 3D printing
