Framework for Dual Transformation: A Systematic Literature Review on the Interplays between Digitalization and Sustainability

Digitalization and sustainability are two central fields of action in the company that are of crucial importance for future business success. The necessary transformation represents a strategically relevant and time-critical task for manufacturing companies that requires an integrative approach in the sense of a dual transformation. Successfully linking digitalization and sustainability enables companies to create long-term competitive advantages in the market for example by developing smart and sustainable products. Despite the strategic relevance, digital and sustainability transformation are often considered separately in corporate practice. One reason for this is that the interplays between digitalization and sustainability in the industrial context are multilayered and complex. This leads to a lack of transparency due to the broad spectrum of the entire research field. Therefore, we conducted a systematic literature review (SLR) to identify similarities and differences between digital and sustainability transformation. The analysis of the existing literature reveals several interplays that both transformation processes have. Based on the core results, we propose a framework for dual transformation supporting decision-makers in corporate practice.