Paper Number
ICIS2025-1991
Paper Type
Short
Abstract
Twin transformation describes the simultaneous integration and promotion of sustainability and digital transformation within a firm. While these two are distinct transformations, a comprehensive integration offers the possibility of mutually reinforcing effects, resulting in synergistic outcomes. In this study, we complement the related literature by exploring the interaction between sustainability and digital transformation from an organizational perspective. To do so, we develop a process model of the twin transformation based on 36 semi-structured interviews with diverse roles across German manufacturing firms. Our findings show how market pressures trigger strategic responses, shaping sustainability goals, digitalization initiatives, and organizational change. In particular, sustainability goals are a driver of digitalization initiatives, while digitalization initiatives are an enabler for sustainability goals. Our study contributes to research by integrating sustainability and digital transformation into a single organizational framework. Thereby, we provide actionable insights for researchers and managers for navigating the twin transformation.
Recommended Citation
Ahlers, Arian and Maibaum, Frederik, "Exploring the Twin Transformation: On the Interplay of Sustainability and Digital Transformation" (2025). ICIS 2025 Proceedings. 13.
https://aisel.aisnet.org/icis2025/sustain/sustain/13
Exploring the Twin Transformation: On the Interplay of Sustainability and Digital Transformation
Twin transformation describes the simultaneous integration and promotion of sustainability and digital transformation within a firm. While these two are distinct transformations, a comprehensive integration offers the possibility of mutually reinforcing effects, resulting in synergistic outcomes. In this study, we complement the related literature by exploring the interaction between sustainability and digital transformation from an organizational perspective. To do so, we develop a process model of the twin transformation based on 36 semi-structured interviews with diverse roles across German manufacturing firms. Our findings show how market pressures trigger strategic responses, shaping sustainability goals, digitalization initiatives, and organizational change. In particular, sustainability goals are a driver of digitalization initiatives, while digitalization initiatives are an enabler for sustainability goals. Our study contributes to research by integrating sustainability and digital transformation into a single organizational framework. Thereby, we provide actionable insights for researchers and managers for navigating the twin transformation.
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04-Sustainability