Supply Chain World Volume 11, Issue 4 August 2024 | Page 24

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The advantage that AI and ML tools offer is the ability to provide diverse sectors with a view of the hidden patterns and relationships that can alter or affect outcomes . From the use of predictive analytics to make assumptions about the future and analysis that is delivering healthcare advancements , to how big data is enhancing social media optimization , these technologies are already giving organizations powerful insights . Some experts foresee similar breakthroughs being applied to manufacturing supply chains – not just by automating tasks , but by fundamentally optimizing processes and reducing costs .
The core advantage of AI and ML is its ability to continuously learn from data , enabling greater automation , rapid discovery of insights , and a competitive edge . Many organizations create data and even use it to inform their customer relationships , forecasts , and planning , but AI and ML technologies offer a way to deliver more . Unlike legacy systems that merely process and report data and are unable to scale , AI and ML models evolve and improve the more data they are fed and the better trained they are , leading to increased accuracy and better business results in the long term .
Revolutionizing logistics
When it comes to logistics , data is pulled from several diverse sources , and sometimes global locations . One key application of AI and ML is streamlining logistics by analyzing real-time data from international sources on factors like transport and traffic , weather forecasts and delivery conditions . AI can then optimize routes , schedules , and resource allocation for maximum efficiency and accurate delivery times . Machine learning is ideal for descriptive and predictive analytics , helping logistics teams move on from retrospective ‘ what happened ?’ questions to future looking ‘ what will happen ?’ insights that drive smarter realtime decisions and long-term planning .
Tracing the trail
Utilizing data through AI can also dramatically boost supply chain visibility and traceability , supporting the monitoring of goods and materials from the source to when they arrive with the customer . AI-powered models can instantly track materials , components and finished goods , highlighting quality issues , enabling precision for recalls , and ensuring regulatory compliance .
Manufacturers gain an unprecedented real-time view into the full length of the supply chain , taking in logistics and transport data across wholesalers , retailers , suppliers , and partners , allowing them to rapidly identify and address bottlenecks , delays , and other inefficiencies , and most importantly , to act fast .
Collaborative intelligence
Contrary to the common fear of being replaced , AI can empower individuals within teams to focus on higher-value tasks and innovation , helping to cut costs associated with human error and repetitive , timeconsuming work . Rather than firefighting problems manually , AI improves crossfunctional communication , aligns goals , and surfaces critical insights from the latest data to drive coordinated action .
Optimizing inventory
AI and ML can also transform inventory management by continuously tracking stock levels to predict demand surges , notify partners of shortages or oversupply , and reduce waste . Automated replenishment cycles ensure goods are produced and delivered exactly when needed , eliminating delays and surplus .
Affordable AI power
Research conducted by Stanford University , MIT , and the National Bureau of Economic Research at an enterprise company in the Philippines in April last year found that AI tools boosted
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