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Incremental innovation
Andrew Johnson shares how smart technology can be used to manage complex supply chains
In the world of supply chain , the stakes have never been higher . Supply chain shortages brought on suddenly by the threat of a global pandemic has caused US manufacturers to recalibrate their supply chains . We ’ re seeing global supply chains dismantled and a rethinking of lean inventory practices . Meanwhile , all of these epic changes are taking place in a marketplace that is struggling to find and retain labor . Our heads are left spinning in a turbulent landscape .
When will the chaos end ? When will we get a chance to catch our breath and relax with a stable outlook ? I don ’ t believe there is much stability in sight for the US marketplace , but I do believe there is opportunity to be found in the chaos .
Experts continue to point to technological innovations as the best way for companies to take advantage of new opportunities that may present themselves in this environment . Many of these same experts suggest companies take the innovation plunge and bet big on high-tech solutions that promise huge ROI . I believe the winners in this innovation race will be the ones who dream big , but start small .
A simple approach to innovation
Whether your company wants to pull the trigger on a new e-commerce platform , a shiny , all-inclusive ERP , or discuss grand ideas like Industry 4.0 , too many industrial manufacturers are falling prey to the temptation to start big .
However , big innovation projects can create chaos and be overwhelming and expensive to implement . That ’ s why digital transformation should be a slow , intentional process of incremental innovations that lead to a series of small wins to accomplish the desired big results . Advanced digital solutions provide manufacturers with the edge to transform and achieve better inventory control , for instance . The Fourth Industrial Revolution has inspired the manufacturing industry to search for new ways to improve supply chains and automate inventory management . Beginning with system design and graduating
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