A Hybrid Fuzzy Approach For Selecting Digital 3pl Service Providers

Background: The study focuses on identifying the technologies, capabilities, and characteristics that logistics firms must possess during the digital transformation of the supply chain. It addresses the challenge of determining the necessary criteria for selecting a technological or digital third-party logistics service provider (3PL). It aims to develop a structured and hybrid decision-making framework for selecting digital 3PL service providers by integrating subjective and objective weighting methods. The scientific purpose is to bridge the gap in existing research by incorporating MultiCriteria Decision-Making (MCDM) methods and providing a more comprehensive, empirically validated, and practically applicable model that enhances digital supply chain efficiency. Methods: The study began with a literature review to identify relevant technological indicators. These indicators were then presented to a group of experts in academia, resulting in the identification of six main criteria and 21 sub-criteria. To determine the weights of these criteria and sub-criteria, MCDM methods were used. Experts with experience in Turkey were selected for the analyses. The study first applied SWARA and Fuzzy Entropy methods, followed by a Bayesian approach. Results: The findings reveal that the most significant factors influencing the selection of a technological 3PL provider include: Automatic Material Placement and Tracking Technology, Lack of Digital Collaboration, Technology Compatibility, Supplier Compatibility and Use of Augmented and Virtual Reality Technologies. These factors play a key role in ensuring effective digital integration within the supply chain. Conclusion: This study integrates SWARA, Fuzzy Entropy, and a Bayesian approach to propose a novel decision-making model for selecting digital 3PL service providers. It highlights key criteria such as technology compatibility and augmented reality technologies, emphasizing their importance for seamless digital supply chain integration. SWARA offers a subjective weighting mechanism, Fuzzy Entropy ensures objectivity, and the Bayesian approach balances these methods. The study provides valuable insights into the factors that influence digital transformation in 3PL services and offers actionable policy recommendations to accelerate this transformation in supply chain management.