Configuration study on the intelligent manufacturing transformation of pharmaceutical manufacturing enterprises based on NCA and fsQCA methods

Intelligent manufacturing transformation is increasingly important for manufacturing competitiveness but is shaped by multiple interacting technological, organisational, and environmental factors. Drawing on the Technology-Organization-Environment (TOE) framework and affordance theory, this study combines Necessary Condition Analysis (NCA) and fuzzy-set Qualitative Comparative Analysis (fsQCA) to examine intelligent manufacturing transformation from a configurational perspective. Using 30 representative Chinese pharmaceutical manufacturing enterprises, the results show that no single affordance factor constitutes a necessary condition for high-level transformation. However, five distinct configurations of technological, organisational, and environmental conditions can lead to high-level intelligent manufacturing transformation. These findings demonstrate the causal complexity and equifinality underlying transformation and highlight the importance of aligning internal capabilities with external policy and market conditions. The study extends the configurational application of affordance theory and the TOE framework and provides practical guidance for pharmaceutical manufacturers and policymakers seeking to promote intelligent manufacturing transformation.