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Digitalization
From chaos to control
How digitalization in supply chains can help overcome global supply chain disruptions . By Alexander Style
While it seems like we ’ re living in a time of supply chain permacrisis , managing global supply chains has never been smooth sailing , and there have always been shocking events and unexpected supply chain disruptions . This won ’ t change ; but what needs to change is our approach to tackling them and reducing the impact on business .
Latest research from Vinturas shows that US supply chain leaders are planning on increasing investment in supply chain technology by 7.5 percent over the next year . But where do organizations start , and how can they ensure that changes made in the digital world have a real impact on the physical one ?
Walk before you can run
There is so much discussion about AI and technical innovation in the supply chain , but supply chains are still failing because the basics aren ’ t in place yet . 65 percent of supply chain leaders are concerned about human errors and mistakes . Before even considering sophisticated automation or predictive analytics , companies must establish solid foundations , such as upgrading all paper based and other rudimentary systems that aren ’ t fit for purpose .
Digitizing everything and removing room for error is critical . After all , AI , predictive analytics , and automation are only as effective as the quality of the data they ’ re built on . Having the supply chain mapped out , digitized , and easily accessible is key .
Not just a dot on the map
Just knowing where products are isn ’ t enough . Even if companies create visibility in their supply chain , they can still be left ‘ in the dark ’ about its status . If something goes wrong , you may know it ’ s at a certain warehouse , but how
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