Structured derivation of measures to optimize digital sustainability management in companies – A case study on how to make a supply chain more sustainable

In order to ensure the future viability of a company, economic growth must be reconciled with ecological and social responsibility. It is therefore of central importance for companies to increase sustainability management efforts. Recent studies indicate that it is often beneficial to utilize existing digitalization approaches and structures, yet companies often fail to identify a starting point and tangible optimization potentials. This paper thus presents a novel approach for evaluating and improving a company’s sustainability performance at the interface between sustainability and digitalization management. Based on a systematic analysis, this study describes how structured measures can be derived from maturity levels regarding key fields of action of sustainability management. In cooperation with a company from the manufacturing industry, the application of the method in practice with a focus on optimizing the supply chain is presented as an example. It is shown how concrete measures are developed to increase efficiency and sustainability in the supply chain management. Several measures were identified in each of the action areas of management responsibilities, strategy and goals, supplier management, competence development, communication, and tracking of sustainability goals. These recommendations for action represent the starting point for the company to optimize its sustainability management.