From Digital to Circular: An Analysis of Technological Enablers for Platform Transformation

The circular economy (CE) is a transformative paradigm for addressing global sustainability challenges and advancing the UN Sustainable Development Goals. However, its application within digital platforms remains underexplored. Smart technologies are widely recognised as critical to developing circular digital platforms (CDPs), yet the specific enablers required for this transition remain poorly understood. This study identifies and prioritises the smart-technology enablers that support the transition from traditional digital platforms to CDPs. A Systematic Literature Review (SLR) combined with Thematic Analysis (TA) was first conducted to derive a comprehensive set of enablers. Their interrelationships were then analysed using the Intuitionistic Fuzzy Decision-Making Trial and Evaluation Laboratory (IF-DEMATEL), and their relative importance was evaluated using the Intuitionistic Fuzzy Analytical Network Process (IF-ANP). Based on this mixed-method approach, eleven enablers were identified. Data analytics tools and techniques emerged as the most influential enabler (16%), while government regulations and policies were the least influential (2%). The IF-DEMATEL results further revealed clear cause–and–effect relationships among the enablers. Finally, the study developed a score-based readiness assessment function to evaluate organisational preparedness for CDP adoption. The study provides an empirically grounded framework for understanding how smart technologies drive CDP implementation and offers a practical tool to support organisational decision-making.