How do you develop global logistics skills in a remote work environment?

I agree that with the current tools that are accessible, global logistics professionals are poised to be more effective than any other time in history. Meeting platforms, online resources, tracking software, and other online tools that are combined with the knowledge of subject matter experts providing continual training to upcoming professionals create a supply chain and logistics network unlike any seen. If professionals can integrate each of these seamlessly, they can create efficient and effective worldwide networks.

The capabilities of modern technology provide professionals the potential of adaptability not found in any other time in history. The East India Trade Company built a massive trade route and logistical network unparalleled in the time it existed. With this in mind, it must be understood that news of delays or the loss of goods could take considerable time to report and be received. Failures or delays today can be notified instantly with an immediate response or with alternative plans already in place to take effect immediately. I feel that the capabilities that are possible are not yet seen as the restrictions resulting from a workforce that has not reached it's potential restricts the true potential of gloab supply chaings.

The hype surrounding AI such as Chat GPT is warranted as a technological advancement. At the same time, the complete trust that many individuals are placing in this tool may be somewhat misplaced. In its current state, the AI tools that are available provide a starting point along with access to vast information that can be used as a resource. Dependence on these tools as the sole source of information for decision-making would be concerning at best. The true source of dependable knowledge comes from the advancement of these tools combined with the tested knowledge and wisdom of industry leaders. Technological tools can be used to broadcast and synchronize training throughout the world to make training more realistic.

The phrase "your network is your net worth", is as true for the organization as it is for the individual. This is magnified in global networks as many large organizations must work with a variety of organizations across national and cultural lines. Corporate trainers for these large organizations must have an understanding of the cultures and practices of the various vendors that their organization partners with. This goes beyond social media and Microsoft Teams meetings but lies with collaboration between the various partnerships. Success depends on combining the knowledge and industry experience of all parties involved to improve on past failures and expand the capabilities of the established network.

Any senior-level leader of a multi-national organization will be required to have the minimum of an understanding of global logistics and how it impacts their role in the organization and its overall health and success. This is one of the many reasons as to why leaders who advance through one organization or across an industry are so effective at the senior level as they have a deep understanding of the industry and the skills necessary for the successful management and guidance of the organization. Conceptual theory can be taught, but the real-world experience must be captured for the individual to be effective.

It may seem obvious, but organizations that display sustainable success have identified productive practices and implemented them at all levels of the organizational chart. Successful organizations such as these are a necessity when it comes to training future leaders in global logistics. Many entities today claim that they offer recognized educational programs with "industry credentials", but the quality of the instructor is what establishes effective programs from those simply teaching a created curriculum. This does not discount curricula that is created by verified subject matter experts, but quality instructors will provide insight to the curricula aside form the depth of the material alone.

In my experience, industry professionals should be more well-rounded when it comes to soft, technical, and industry-specific skills. All three of these skillsets are critical to making global logistics or any specific industry the most effective and efficient possible. However, my experience has showed me that the professionals nearing retirement that possess the necessary knowledge for success in industry often lack the required technical and soft skills that industry leaders desire. Entry-level or middle-level employees often lack industry or skill-specific knowledge with a mixture of the technical and soft skills necessary for successful advancement. Past projections would present the notion that the workforce would be more adanved.