Necessity for tech-driven process optimization and automation in Supply Chain

Supply chains are complex networks that involve multiple stakeholders, diverse geographical locations, various modes of transportation, and numerous regulatory requirements. This complexity is not just theoretical; it is a day-to-day reality that supply chain managers must navigate.

In a world where supply chain disruptions are becoming increasingly common, the importance of having robust operational workflows and centralized data management cannot be overstated. Embracing AI and integrated systems is not just about staying competitive; it is about ensuring the sustainability and success of the entire supply chain operation.

According to the Council of Supply Chain Management Professionals (CSCMP), logistics costs account for nearly 8% of a company's total revenue. This statistic underscores the importance of having well-defined and efficient operational workflows.

As supply chains continue to evolve, the adoption of AI-powered technology will not just be an advantage but a necessity. By leveraging AI, supply chain managers can transform their operations and ensure that they are well-equipped to meet today’s and tomorrow’s challenges.

Embracing this transformation will enable companies to stay competitive, agile, and responsive in an increasingly demanding market.

Without standardized workflows, each department or team may follow different procedures, leading to inconsistencies and errors. These errors can cause delays, missed deadlines, and ultimately, dissatisfied customers. A survey by the Chartered Institute of Procurement & Supply (CIPS) found that 70% of supply chain professionals reported that data inaccuracies were a significant challenge in their operations.

The biggest supply chain silo is data. There is so much information being exchanged across the supply chain—between ERP systems, carrier and 3PL systems, bills of lading, and customs declarations—but they all exist in separate systems. Unifying this data is key to true supply chain visibility.

When data is scattered, obtaining a comprehensive view of operations becomes nearly impossible. This lack of visibility hampers decision-making, as managers cannot access the real-time information they need. Estimates show 69% of companies don’t have a holistic view of their supply chain.

Centralizing your operations and data flow in a single platform can reduce technical incompatibilities and cross-functional dependencies, allowing all stakeholders to operate more efficiently and collaborate effectively. This platform can provide an enriched data ecosystem and scalability on demand and allow organizations to embrace unprecedented growth and hectic business during peak seasons, unlocking the potential for collaboration.

Last but not least, understanding and analyzing the data can also reveal potential risks or areas of underperformance and showcase opportunities to increase growth or performance.

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