Regardless of where in the supply chain one may look, an integral component of smooth operations is visibility. From end to end, supply chain visibility and analytics can make the network chain stronger when it is properly enforced. However, when visibility is poor and communications stunted, it can slow down the entire process. It is why managers at all levels need to be mindful of supply chain visibility and its impact on analytics, communications, and automation throughout the network.
Trends of Supply Chain Visibility and Analytics Reveal Need for Integration
The past few years have made it clear that there is a much-needed shift within the shipping and logistics industry. The need for more integration, better automation, and a more streamlined approach has grown more evident than ever. It all ties back to the need for integration and improved supply chain visibility and analytics.
According to Supply Chain 24/7, “Visibility is more important than ever – but it’s not enough. What good is seeing a problem if you can’t resolve it and do so in an optimal way?” Such a concept is why integration and automation are needed for growth and advancement within the industry.
Why Technology Unifies People and Processes in the Supply Chain
The human touch is always essential in shipping and logistics. The supply chain will still need human creativity, oversight, and innovation, but technology will also play a vital role in its future.
Technology unifies people and processes and makes it easier to achieve and maintain supply chain visibility from start to finish. Technology keeps people connected and makes it easier for every department and every link in the supply chain to quickly and easily share data. When people can remain united, and on the same page, even at a distance, every process within the supply chain will be improved.
Ways Technology Yields Supply Chain Process and Shipment-Level Visibility
- Analytics and real-time data help to show the end-to-end freight cycle and highlight strengths and weaknesses otherwise not seen.
- Shipment visibility through IoT-enabled devices reduces confusion and delays by allowing for real-time responses to developing issues.
- Automation in logistics reduces rework, prevents errors, improves workloads, removes human error, and streamlines processes.
- Better yields are attainable, and freight costs and supply chain visibility is maintained with automated checks and systems in place.
- Overall productivity quickly improves, and embracing technology in the supply chain meets customer needs and demands faster.
