Critical success factors for implementing digital human resources: Insights from the shipping sector

Digital transformation has brought about profound changes in the maritime logistics industry and imposed strict requirements on human resource management. By integrating competency models, dynamic capability theory, and stakeholder theory, this study constructs a framework of critical success factors (CSFs) for digital human resources (DHR) with 21 sub-factors. Using a hybrid analytical approach that combines the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP), Fuzzy Decision-Making Trial and Evaluation Laboratory (FDEMATEL), Analytic Network Process (ANP), and Choquet integral, the necessity and interdependencies of each CSF are determined. Data were collected through interviews with 20 experts. The findings reveal three core dimensions for building an effective DHR framework: maritime digital strategy and vision, digital human development strategy, and change readiness. Additionally, the study highlights the importance of digital literacy programs and digital infrastructure. This study enriches the existing knowledge of digital transformation and digital human resource management in the maritime industry and provides practical guidance for maritime managers in developing and implementing effective digital HR strategies.