Overcome a Supply Chain Crisis with Human Intelligence

The COVID-19 pandemic has brought attention to the vital role human intelligence and simple good judgment play in overcoming a supply chain crisis. Pre-Covid, one of the primary goals for most companies in anyindustry was to improve data analytics and automation for a better customer experience. In fact, a large percentage of companies believe having an efficient supply chain management strategy gives them a competitive advantage and allows them to develop their business.  While those advantages of effective supply chain management are true, having an experienced supply chain expertise is a critical piece of the strategy. Combining the advantages of AI, data analytics and automation with an experienced supply chain expert will position your company to sail smoothly through any interruptions. Here's why: 

Effective Planning and Execution - Technology is an indispensable tool for improving efficiency and automation. But it heavily relies on data and patterns. That skill is perfect for running typical day-to-day operations but not sudden and drastic changes. With a supply chain management expert, you can quickly scale your business. You can swiftly make changes according to emerging trends, allowing your business to maximize on the disruption.  Supply chain experts bring a wealth of problem-solving experience in diverse situations. Whether it's a new product launch, optimizing your warehouse design or dealing with a sudden spike in demand, you can get the best outcome with some human intelligence. 

Supply Chain Benchmarking to Prevent Crisis - Nobody understands your business better than you. You know your potential and that of your company. But you need a little help realizing that growth. Supply chain benchmarking helps to check your operations, set your targets and identify gaps limiting your growth.   Supply chain experts often work with your employees and the metrics provided by your data analytics and AI systems to identify areas and objectives that need improvement. The expert will design and implement solutions that will improve KPI performance and drive growth in your business.

Select the Best Technology - Technology in the supply chain business is in high demand. There's no shortage of solutions for your business from warehouse management systems, logistics systems like TMS, RFID tracking solutions and RPA and other automation techniques.  Choosing the ideal solution for your business is not easy or economical. You need a skilled expert who can help your business identify the latest and best-fitting technology for your business to maximize your investment. A supply chain expert ensures you optimize your investment and your business by investing the right technologies.

Identify and Resolve Bottlenecks - Bottlenecks are a common problem in every aspect of supply chains, including inventory management, warehousing and distribution. Solving such challenges could turn you into an industry leader. However, while technology does an excellent job of highlighting potential problems, it won't identify the problem area in some or most cases. This is where experience and expertise come in handy. A supply chain expert can identify problem areas and come up with solutions that can improve product flow while reducing disruptions and losses to the business. 

Generate Business Forecasts - Forecasting is the most critical aspect of inventory management. It's also one of the most challenging to fully understand if you are purely relying on technology. You need someone who can anticipate how the current trends could affect your business and help you prepare and adapt. A supply chain management expert can help you do exactly that. 

Final Thoughts - In supply chains, technology and human intelligence are not competitors. They are a tag-team. When used correctly, this combination streamlines your business, improves your disaster preparedness, and helps you capitalise on potential surges in demand. Check out our services (www.gwclogistics.com) to learn more about what we can do for you to overcome a supply chain crisis with human intelligence.