Immersive realities in supply chain management: a technological perspective

Purpose:The research aims to explore the integration of immersive reality technologies into supply chain management.The study focuses on how these technologies can revolutionize decision-making processes and enhance resource optimization, leading to a more sustainable and efficient operational framework.Design/methodology/approach: The objectives of the research are achieved through a systematic literature mapping methodology.This method involves conducting a comprehensive review of existing resources in the field of immersive realities in supply chain management.Findings: The analysis of patent applications revealed thematic groups within the patent content and highlighted changes in the number of patents filed and granted over time.This analysis suggested that technologies implementing immersive reality are at a mature stage of the innovation process, indicating a potential intensification of activities related to the diffusion of these solutions in practice.Research limitations/implications: The paper highlights the need for research into the longterm health effects of these technologies to ensure user safety and comfort, improve accessibility for people with disabilities, and support inclusivity.The paper also identifies limitations in the current research process, such as the lack of coordination in research efforts and technical knowledge gaps, which pose significant barriers to the successful implementation of these technologies.Practical implications: The integration of these technologies with artificial intelligence (AI) and other advanced technologies can further enhance operational management and training, focusing on areas such as product design, quality control, and remote collaboration.Social implications: These technologies can enhance the efficiency of supply chains, leading to reduced resource consumption and waste, which aligns with broader societal goals of sustainability and environmental conservation.Originality/value: The paper provides a comprehensive analysis of patent applications to understand the development and application of these technologies in the field.This approach offers new insights into the thematic groups of patent content and tracks changes in the number of patents filed and granted over time, highlighting trends and the maturity of these technologies in the innovation process.The paper is primarily addressed to researchers and practitioners in the fields of supply chain management and immersive technologies.It is also valuable for policymakers and industry leaders interested in the adoption of innovative technologies to enhance sustainability and efficiency in supply chains.