Derivation of key success factors for the use of digital twins in production networks as enabler to increase supply chain quality

In response to the decreasing depth of value creation and concentration of companies on their core competences, global networks of customers, manufacturers and suppliers have emerged. However, this development confronts companies with numerous challenges in terms of ensuring and improving the quality of their goods and services. Companies are increasingly dependent on the quality capability of their suppliers. On top of that, the multitude of exchange relationships and interfaces in the value creation network imply that the supply chain is considerably vulnerable to disruptions and errors. In this regard, traditional management approaches reach their limits. The application of advanced digital technologies becomes indispensable. Therefore, this paper aims to examine the usage of digital twins in production networks as enabler to enhance supply chain quality. Analyzing digital twin applications in the context of supply chain quality management, this work focuses on deriving essential success factors for the use of digital twins in production networks. As a result, a framework to provide guidance for digital twin implementation is presented.