Supply chains are the backbone of global commerce, facilitating the movement of goods and services from manufacturers to end consumers. However, in recent years, supply chain disruptions have become more frequent and severe, posing significant challenges to businesses worldwide. These disruptions can stem from various sources, including natural disasters, geopolitical tensions, economic downturns, and pandemics. The COVID-19 pandemic, in particular, has exposed vulnerabilities in global supply chains, disrupting production, distribution, and logistics operations on an unprecedented scale (Ivanov & Dolgui, 2020). The ability of businesses to adapt to supply chain disruptions is critical for their survival and success in today's dynamic business environment. While some disruptions may be inevitable, organizations can mitigate their impact by developing agile supply chain strategies that enable them to respond quickly and effectively to unforeseen events (Chopra & Sodhi, 2004). Agility in the supply chain context refers to the ability to anticipate, detect, and respond to disruptions in a timely manner while maintaining or enhancing overall performance (Ponomarov & Holcomb, 2009). Achieving supply chain agility requires a combination of proactive risk management, flexible processes, technological integration, collaboration with partners, and adaptive leadership (Christopher & Peck, 2004). Organizations must continuously assess their vulnerabilities, develop contingency plans, and invest in technologies that enhance visibility, flexibility, and resilience across the supply chain (Ivanov & Das, 2020). Moreover, fostering a culture of collaboration and trust among supply chain partners is essential for sharing information, pooling resources, and coordinating responses to disruptions (Ivanov & Dolgui, 2021). The COVID-19 pandemic has underscored the importance of supply chain agility, prompting organizations to reevaluate their strategies and practices in light of emerging challenges (Ivanov, 2021). While some businesses have struggled to cope with disruptions, others have demonstrated remarkable resilience by leveraging digital technologies, diversifying sourcing strategies, and building robust relationships with suppliers and customers (Sarkis et al., 2020). Understanding how organizations adapt to supply chain disruptions during crises is essential for identifying best practices and informing future strategies for enhancing agility and resilience. Qualitative research offers a valuable approach for exploring the complexities of supply chain agility in the context of crises. By engaging in-depth interviews with supply chain managers and industry experts, researchers can gain insights into the strategies, practices, and challenges associated with navigating disruptions (Pettigrew, 1990). Qualitative methods allow for the exploration of nuanced factors that influence supply chain agility, including organizational culture, leadership styles, and stakeholder relationships (Eisenhardt, 1989). In this study, we aim to contribute to the existing body of knowledge on supply chain agility by conducting a qualitative investigation into how organizations adapt to disruptions during crises. Through in-depth interviews with supply chain managers from diverse industries, we seek to uncover the strategies and practices that enable businesses to enhance resilience and responsiveness in the face of adversity. By examining real-world experiences and perspectives, we aim to generate insights that can inform theory development, managerial practice, and policy-making in the field of supply chain management.

Supply chain agility has garnered significant attention in the literature as organizations seek to cope with increasing uncertainty and disruptions in the global business environment. Agility refers to the ability of an organization to respond quickly and effectively to changes in its environment while maintaining or enhancing overall performance (Ponomarov & Holcomb, 2009). While traditional supply chain management approaches emphasize efficiency and cost minimization, agility requires a shift towards flexibility, responsiveness, and resilience (Christopher & Peck, 2004). One of the key drivers of supply chain agility is proactive risk management. Organizations must identify and assess potential risks to their supply chains, including natural disasters, geopolitical instability, economic fluctuations, and pandemics (Ivanov & Das, 2020). By understanding the vulnerabilities and interdependencies within their supply networks, companies can develop contingency plans and risk mitigation strategies to reduce the impact of disruptions (Chopra & Sodhi, 2004). For example, the COVID-19 pandemic prompted many companies to reassess their sourcing strategies, diversify their supplier base, and stockpile critical inventory to buffer against future shocks (Ivanov & Dolgui, 2021). Technological integration also plays a crucial role in enhancing supply chain agility. Digital technologies such as blockchain, Internet of Things (IoT), artificial intelligence (AI), and cloud computing enable real-time visibility, collaboration, and decision-making across the supply chain (Ivanov & Dolgui, 2020). These technologies facilitate the sharing of information, coordination of activities, and prediction of disruptions, allowing organizations to respond more rapidly and effectively to changes in demand and supply (Sarkis et al., 2020). For instance, companies can use IoT sensors to monitor inventory levels, track shipments, and identify potential bottlenecks in the supply chain (Ivanov, 2021). Collaboration with supply chain partners is another critical enabler of agility. Building strong relationships with suppliers, customers, and other stakeholders fosters trust, transparency, and mutual support in times of crisis (Ivanov & Das, 2020). Collaborative practices such as joint planning, risk-sharing, and information sharing can enhance the resilience of the entire supply chain by enabling rapid response and recovery from disruptions (Ivanov & Dolgui, 2021). Moreover, collaboration allows organizations to leverage the expertise and resources of their partners to develop innovative solutions and create value for customers (Emon & Khan, 2023). Adaptive leadership is also essential for fostering supply chain agility. Leaders must possess the vision, flexibility, and resilience to navigate uncertainties and guide their organizations through crises (Ivanov, 2021). Adaptive leaders are able to anticipate change, empower their teams, and make timely decisions in response to evolving circumstances (Emon & Nipa, 2024). Moreover, they foster a culture of continuous learning, experimentation, and improvement that enables organizations to adapt and thrive in volatile environments (Emon et al., 2024). In addition to these key drivers, several other factors have been identified in the literature as influencing supply chain agility. Sustainability considerations, for example, are increasingly important for organizations seeking to build resilient and responsible supply chains (Emon & Khan, 2023). By integrating environmental, social, and governance (ESG) criteria into their supply chain strategies, companies can reduce risks, enhance reputation, and create long-term value for stakeholders (Emon & Nipa, 2024). Similarly, emotional intelligence among supply chain managers and employees can enhance agility by enabling effective communication, collaboration, and decision-making under pressure (Emon et al., 2024). Moreover, marketing strategies and supplier relationship management practices can also contribute to supply chain agility by enabling organizations to better understand customer needs, anticipate demand fluctuations, and build trust with key suppliers (Rahman et al., 2024). By adopting a holistic approach that considers the interconnectedness of these various factors, organizations can develop agile supply chains that are resilient, responsive, and sustainable in the face of disruptions. Furthermore, the literature emphasizes the importance of organizational culture in fostering supply chain agility. A culture that values innovation, flexibility, and continuous improvement can enable employees to adapt quickly to changing circumstances and proactively identify opportunities for improvement (Emon & Khan, 2023). Organizations that promote open communication, empowerment, and collaboration among employees are better positioned to respond effectively to disruptions and drive continuous innovation in their supply chains (Emon & Nipa, 2024). Effective communication and information sharing are also critical enablers of supply chain agility. Timely and accurate information allows organizations to anticipate disruptions, coordinate responses, and make informed decisions in real time (Ivanov & Dolgui, 2020). Technologies such as advanced analytics, predictive modeling, and simulation tools can help organizations gather, analyze, and disseminate data across the supply chain, enabling better visibility and decision-making (Sarkis et al., 2020). Moreover, communication channels that facilitate collaboration and knowledge sharing among supply chain partners can enhance agility by enabling rapid problem-solving and innovation (Emon et al., 2024). In addition to these internal factors, external factors such as regulatory requirements, market dynamics, and geopolitical risks can also influence supply chain agility. Regulatory compliance, for example, may impose constraints on supply chain operations, requiring organizations to adapt their processes and practices to ensure compliance while maintaining agility (Ivanov & Das, 2020). Similarly, changes in consumer preferences, competitive pressures, and trade policies can create uncertainties and disruptions in the supply chain, necessitating agile responses from organizations (Ivanov, 2021). The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the importance of resilience and adaptability in supply chain management. Organizations that were able to quickly adjust their strategies, processes, and relationships were better able to withstand the disruptions caused by the pandemic and emerge stronger on the other side (Chopra & Sodhi, 2004). For example, companies that had invested in digital technologies, diversified their supplier base, and fostered collaborative relationships with key partners were able to mitigate the impact of supply chain disruptions and maintain continuity of operations (Ivanov & Dolgui, 2021). Looking ahead, the increasing pace of technological innovation, globalization, and environmental change is likely to further disrupt supply chains and necessitate greater agility among organizations (Ponomarov & Holcomb, 2009). Organizations that embrace agility as a core competency and continuously adapt their strategies, processes, and relationships will be better positioned to thrive in the face of uncertainty and complexity (Christopher & Peck, 2004). By integrating insights from research on risk management, technology, collaboration, leadership, and other relevant disciplines, organizations can develop holistic approaches to supply chain agility that enable them to navigate disruptions, seize opportunities, and create sustainable value for all stakeholders.

The research methodology employed for this study involved a qualitative approach aimed at gaining in-depth insights into how organizations adapt to supply chain disruptions during crises. Qualitative research methods were chosen to explore the complex and nuanced factors that influence supply chain agility, including organizational strategies, practices, and challenges. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with supply chain managers from various industries to gather rich, detailed data on their experiences, perspectives, and strategies for managing disruptions. A purposive sampling strategy was employed to select participants with diverse backgrounds, experiences, and organizational contexts. Potential participants were identified through professional networks, industry associations, and snowball sampling, ensuring representation from different sectors and geographic regions. Informed consent was obtained from all participants prior to the interviews, and they were assured of confidentiality and anonymity in reporting their responses. The interviews were conducted either in person or virtually, depending on participant preferences and logistical considerations. A semi-structured interview guide was developed to ensure consistency and comprehensiveness in data collection while allowing for flexibility to explore emergent themes and follow-up on interesting insights. The interview guide covered a range of topics related to supply chain disruptions, agility strategies, technological capabilities, collaborative practices, leadership approaches, and organizational culture. Each interview lasted approximately 60-90 minutes and was audio-recorded with the participants' consent. Detailed field notes were also taken during the interviews to capture non-verbal cues, contextual information, and researcher reflections. The interviews were transcribed verbatim and analyzed using thematic analysis to identify patterns, themes, and variations in the data. Data analysis involved several iterative steps, including familiarization with the data, coding of the transcripts, generation of initial themes, and refinement of themes through constant comparison and triangulation of data sources. Member checking was conducted to validate the findings and ensure the accuracy and credibility of the interpretations. Trustworthiness and rigor in the research process were ensured through various strategies, including researcher reflexivity, peer debriefing, and methodological triangulation. Reflexivity involved the ongoing reflection on the researcher's assumptions, biases, and preconceptions, as well as their potential influence on the research process and findings. Peer debriefing involved discussions with colleagues and experts in the field to challenge interpretations, validate findings, and enhance the credibility of the study. Methodological triangulation was achieved by integrating multiple data sources, such as interviews, field observations, and document analysis, to enhance the reliability and validity of the findings. Overall, the qualitative research methodology employed in this study provided a robust and nuanced understanding of how organizations adapt to supply chain disruptions during crises. By eliciting rich, detailed insights from supply chain managers, the study generated valuable knowledge that can inform theory development, managerial practice, and policy-making in the field of supply chain management.

The analysis of the qualitative data yielded several key findings regarding how organizations adapt to supply chain disruptions during crises. These findings provide insights into the strategies, practices, and challenges associated with enhancing supply chain agility in the face of adversity. Firstly, proactive risk management emerged as a critical strategy for mitigating the impact of disruptions. Many participants highlighted the importance of conducting risk assessments, scenario planning, and contingency planning to identify potential vulnerabilities and develop response strategies. For example, one participant from the manufacturing sector stated, "We regularly assess risks across our supply chain and develop contingency plans for various scenarios, such as natural disasters, geopolitical tensions, and pandemics. This proactive approach allows us to anticipate disruptions and implement timely measures to minimize their impact." Technological integration was also identified as a key enabler of supply chain agility. Participants emphasized the importance of leveraging digital technologies to enhance visibility, connectivity, and decision-making across the supply chain. For instance, several participants mentioned the use of IoT sensors, real-time tracking systems, and predictive analytics to monitor inventory levels, track shipments, and identify potential bottlenecks. A participant from the retail sector remarked, "Our investment in advanced technology has improved our ability to anticipate disruptions, optimize inventory levels, and respond quickly to changes in demand. This real-time visibility enables us to make informed decisions and adapt our supply chain processes accordingly." Collaboration with supply chain partners emerged as another important factor in enhancing agility. Participants emphasized the value of building strong relationships, sharing information, and coordinating responses with suppliers, customers, and other stakeholders. For example, one participant from the logistics sector stated, "We have established collaborative partnerships with our suppliers and customers, allowing us to share information, resources, and best practices. This collaboration enables us to work together to overcome challenges and find innovative solutions to disruptions." Adaptive leadership was also highlighted as a critical factor in fostering supply chain agility. Participants emphasized the importance of visionary, flexible, and resilient leadership in navigating uncertainties and guiding organizations through crises. For instance, one participant from the pharmaceutical sector remarked, "Our leadership team has demonstrated agility and resilience in responding to the COVID-19 pandemic. They have adapted quickly to changing circumstances, communicated effectively with employees, and made tough decisions to ensure the continuity of our operations." In addition to these key themes, several other factors emerged as influencing supply chain agility. Organizational culture was identified as a crucial determinant of agility, with participants emphasizing the importance of fostering a culture of innovation, collaboration, and continuous improvement. For example, one participant from the technology sector stated, "Our organizational culture values experimentation, collaboration, and learning from failure. This mindset enables us to adapt quickly to changes in the market and develop innovative solutions to disruptions." Effective communication and information sharing were also highlighted as important enablers of agility. Participants emphasized the importance of timely and transparent communication, both within the organization and with external stakeholders. For example, one participant from the food and beverage sector remarked, "Clear communication is essential for coordinating our response to disruptions and ensuring that everyone is aligned on our priorities and actions. We use various channels, such as email, meetings, and collaboration tools, to keep employees informed and engaged." External factors such as regulatory requirements, market dynamics, and geopolitical risks were also identified as influencing supply chain agility. Participants emphasized the need to monitor and adapt to changes in the external environment to anticipate and mitigate potential disruptions. For example, one participant from the automotive sector stated, "We closely monitor regulatory changes, market trends, and geopolitical developments to anticipate potential risks and opportunities. This proactive approach allows us to adjust our supply chain strategies and operations accordingly." Overall, the findings of this study highlight the multifaceted nature of supply chain agility and the importance of adopting a holistic approach to managing disruptions. By integrating strategies related to risk management, technology, collaboration, leadership, culture, and communication, organizations can enhance their resilience and responsiveness in the face of uncertainty and complexity. These insights can inform theory development, managerial practice, and policy-making in the field of supply chain management, helping organizations to better prepare for and navigate future disruptions.

The findings of this study provide valuable insights into how organizations adapt to supply chain disruptions during crises. By exploring the strategies, practices, and challenges associated with enhancing supply chain agility, this research contributes to a deeper understanding of how businesses can navigate uncertainty and complexity in today's dynamic business environment. One key takeaway from the findings is the importance of proactive risk management in mitigating the impact of disruptions. Participants emphasized the need for organizations to conduct thorough risk assessments, scenario planning, and contingency planning to identify potential vulnerabilities and develop response strategies. This proactive approach enables organizations to anticipate disruptions and implement timely measures to minimize their impact, thereby enhancing their resilience and responsiveness. Technological integration emerged as another critical enabler of supply chain agility. Participants highlighted the value of leveraging digital technologies such as IoT, real-time tracking systems, and predictive analytics to enhance visibility, connectivity, and decision-making across the supply chain. By investing in advanced technology, organizations can improve their ability to monitor inventory levels, track shipments, and identify potential bottlenecks, enabling them to make informed decisions and adapt their supply chain processes accordingly. Collaboration with supply chain partners was also identified as a key factor in enhancing agility. Participants emphasized the importance of building strong relationships, sharing information, and coordinating responses with suppliers, customers, and other stakeholders. Collaborative partnerships enable organizations to work together to overcome challenges and find innovative solutions to disruptions, leveraging the expertise and resources of their partners to enhance resilience and responsiveness. Adaptive leadership was highlighted as another critical determinant of supply chain agility. Participants emphasized the importance of visionary, flexible, and resilient leadership in navigating uncertainties and guiding organizations through crises. Effective leadership enables organizations to adapt quickly to changing circumstances, communicate effectively with employees, and make tough decisions to ensure the continuity of operations, thereby fostering a culture of agility and resilience. In addition to these key themes, several other factors were identified as influencing supply chain agility, including organizational culture, effective communication, and external factors such as regulatory requirements and market dynamics. Organizational culture plays a crucial role in fostering agility, with a culture of innovation, collaboration, and continuous improvement enabling organizations to adapt quickly to changes in the market and develop innovative solutions to disruptions. Effective communication is essential for coordinating responses to disruptions and ensuring that everyone is aligned on priorities and actions, both within the organization and with external stakeholders. External factors such as regulatory requirements, market dynamics, and geopolitical risks also influence supply chain agility, requiring organizations to monitor and adapt to changes in the external environment to anticipate and mitigate potential disruptions. By adopting a holistic approach that integrates strategies related to risk management, technology, collaboration, leadership, culture, and communication, organizations can enhance their resilience and responsiveness in the face of uncertainty and complexity. Overall, the findings of this study underscore the importance of supply chain agility in enabling organizations to adapt to disruptions and thrive in today's dynamic business environment. By understanding the strategies, practices, and challenges associated with enhancing agility, organizations can better prepare for and navigate future disruptions, thereby improving their ability to sustain competitive advantage and create long-term value for stakeholders.

This study has provided valuable insights into how organizations adapt to supply chain disruptions during crises. By exploring the strategies, practices, and challenges associated with enhancing supply chain agility, the research has contributed to a deeper understanding of how businesses can navigate uncertainty and complexity in today's dynamic business environment. The findings highlight the importance of proactive risk management, technological integration, collaboration with supply chain partners, and adaptive leadership in fostering agility and resilience. Moreover, the study emphasizes the role of organizational culture, effective communication, and external factors such as regulatory requirements and market dynamics in influencing supply chain agility. By adopting a holistic approach that integrates these various factors, organizations can enhance their ability to anticipate, detect, and respond to disruptions in a timely manner while maintaining or enhancing overall performance. These insights can inform theory development, managerial practice, and policy-making in the field of supply chain management, helping organizations to better prepare for and navigate future disruptions. Overall, the findings of this study underscore the importance of supply chain agility in enabling organizations to adapt to changing circumstances and thrive in today's increasingly volatile and uncertain business environment.