| Author: | Lee, Kin Ho Henry |
| Title: | Global sea freight business digital transformation for electronic manufacturing services (EMS) industry |
| Advisors: | Xiao, Guang (LMS) |
| Degree: | DFinTech |
| Year: | 2025 |
| Department: | Faculty of Business |
| Pages: | xviii, 234 pages : color illustrations |
| Language: | English |
| Abstract: | This research investigates the digital transformation priorities and challenges in global sea freight operations supporting the Electronic Manufacturing Services (EMS) industry. Through a mixed-method approach combining Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) analysis and in-depth industry expert interviews, the study examines how Manufacturing and Logistics sectors approach digital transformation initiatives. The research methodology included surveys from 48 Manufacturing and 17 Logistics sector professionals, complemented by interviews with industry leaders including one of the world's top 10 global freight companies and multiple public-listed EMS providers. The findings reveal that Transparency, Traceability, and Security (T-01) emerges as the top priority across both Manufacturing (30.4%) and Logistics (26.9%) sectors. However, significant differences exist in secondary priorities, with Manufacturing emphasizing Real-time Tracking and Monitoring (21.9%) while Logistics focuses on Regulatory Uncertainty (17.4%). The research identifies substantial capability gaps between industry leaders like Flex (US$30.35 billion revenue) and the broader market, where approximately 50% of documentation processes remain manual despite having advanced ERP systems. The study's analysis of platform implementation experiences, particularly LOG#1's previous blockchain initiative, reveals that successful digital transformation is more effectively achieved through a "pull" approach driven by regulatory frameworks and clear market demands rather than technology-pushed solutions. This finding is validated through contemporary examples like the European Union's USB-C mandate impact on industry practices. This research contributes to both theoretical understanding and practical implementation strategies for digital transformation in maritime logistics. It provides actionable insights for industry stakeholders while highlighting the importance of balanced approaches that consider both immediate operational benefits and long-term strategic value. The findings emphasize the need for sector-specific implementation strategies and suggest directions for future research in cross-sector collaboration and regulatory frameworks supporting digital transformation initiatives. |
| Rights: | All rights reserved |
| Access: | restricted access |
Files in This Item:
| File | Description | Size | Format | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 8215.pdf | For All Users (off-campus access for PolyU Staff & Students only) | 3.27 MB | Adobe PDF | View/Open |
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