Digitalization of integrated management systems for operational efficiency: Insights from industry and sustainability reports–A systematic review

This systematic review examines how digitalizing integrated management systems (IMS) transforms operational effectiveness, sustainability, and strategic value generation in several industries. Using 69 peer-reviewed studies, corporate sustainability reports, and cross-sector case studies, the study emphasizes how AI, IoT, and cloud technologies come together to enable real-time compliance monitoring, predictive maintenance, and data-driven environmental, social, and governance (ESG) reporting. Reducing redundancy, enhancing risk management, and supporting standards like ISO 9001, 14001, and 45001, digital IMS systems surpass conventional methods. Significant performance improvements, including 30-40% reductions in audit preparation time and enhanced incident response, are shown in case studies from manufacturing, oil and gas, healthcare, and energy sectors. Even with these advantages, there are still difficulties in small company adoption, workforce training, and cybersecurity. Particularly in promoting circular economy principles and ESG openness, the review notes strategic alignment between digital IMS and sustainability objectives as a major success driver. It demands policy backing and modular, scalable IMS solutions to span the digital gap. Incorporating compliance, innovation, and sustainable performance into unified, value-driven organizational structures, this research positions digital IMS as a core pillar for Industry 5.0.