Exploring the role of generative AI to enhance knowledge management capabilities for improved supply chain resilience in large-scale initiatives

Recently, large-scale projects have become complex, facing frequent disruptions due to geopolitical instability, environmental challenges, and resource limitations, threatening supply chain resilience. Traditional supply chain methods are insufficient for managing these dynamic risks, highlighting the need for innovative strategies. In this context, knowledge management (KM) has played a key role in effective decision-making and operational efficiency, supported by the rapid progress of artificial intelligence, especially Generative AI (GenAI), which enhances organizations’ ability to anticipate, respond to, and recover from supply chain disruptions. This study aims to explore the role of GenAI in improving KM processes to strengthen supply chain resilience (SCR) in large-scale projects. It addresses the gap in integrating GenAI, KM, and SCR in large initiatives. The research uses a qualitative approach, including semi-structured interviews with 23 “elite workers,” Focusing on the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) and document reviews, which were analyzed using CAQDAS ATLAS.ti. The study also employs quantitative analysis to examine challenges and disruptions in CPEC supply chains. According to the dynamic capability view, it proposes a framework that describes how trust and organizational culture moderate the use of GenAI tools to develop approaches and KM processes for enhancing SCR in large-scale initiatives. The research advances theoretical understanding by integrating GenAI into the KM domain and contributes to SCR literature by defining the dynamic capabilities in megaprojects. It is among the earliest studies exploring the impact of GenAI initiatives in mega projects with a focus on supply chain resilience. Practically, it provides actionable insights for policymakers and practitioners to implement the proposed framework, fostering sustainable, resilient supply chains in dynamic environments and ensuring long-term success.