The aim of this paper is the scientific development of a maturity model concerning the digital transformation of companies within the manufacturing industry’s supply chain. The rather “broad” and dispersed “mega-trend” of digitalization is expected to play an increasingly important role for companies as well as for the (digital) supply chain of the future. Such a model comprises the objective of addressing fundamental components, complementary innovations and relevant terminologies, like smart products, Cyber-Physical Systems (CPS) and Big Data Analytics.
Scientific rigor is achieved through conducting grounded theory research and in-depth interviews as methods of data collection and evaluation.
Furthermore, relevant aspects concerning the development and construction of maturity models are discussed, before a suitable and scientifically elaborated maturity model concerning digitalization emerges from the course of investigation and its value for economic practice as well as for the scientific community is specified.