Abstract:
This thesis explores the impact of Information Technology (IT) on inventory
management systems in Pakistan's healthcare sector, with a focus on Lean Inventory
Systems (LIS) and Strategic Supplier Partnerships (SSP). The research provides strong
evidence of IT's positive influence in optimizing inventory processes, improving
supplier collaboration, and enhancing overall healthcare operational efficiency.
Through regression analysis and case studies, the study demonstrates how IT
infrastructure and technological innovation (TI), including tools like RFID, barcode
scanning, and predictive analytics, streamline inventory control, minimize waste, and
ensure timely restocking of essential medical supplies.
The findings reveal that IT plays a crucial role as an enabler of Lean initiatives by
facilitating real-time information exchange, process integration, and predictive
analytics. IT also enhances supplier communication and collaboration, reducing lead
times and improving supply chain responsiveness. The study highlights the combined
effect of IT infrastructure and emerging technologies such as Artificial Intelligence (AI)
and machine learning, which further enhance inventory accuracy and operational
efficiency in healthcare facilities.
By examining public and private healthcare sectors in Pakistan, the research
underscores the importance of IT in minimizing stockouts, reducing wastage, and
supporting continuous care, especially during supply chain disruptions. It also identifies
the need for sustained investment in IT infrastructure to maintain and improve
healthcare delivery systems. The thesis contributes to both theoretical and practical understanding, enriching the
literature on IT's role in inventory management and its implications for healthcare
organizations. It emphasizes the significance of adopting emerging technologies to
strengthen inventory management practices and foster sustainable healthcare
operations. Finally, the study suggests future research directions, such as expanding the
sample size, exploring advanced technologies, and employing longitudinal studies to
establish causal relationships between IT and inventory management improvements.
