From AI-powered code optimization to the latest manufacturing advances to nuanced management of inventory in a post-just-in-time world, the modern supply chain is a tapestry of innovation. Yet, while some reap the rewards of forward-thinking tools and processes, others struggle to realize the workforce's crucial role in successful adoption. These diverse narratives underscore a singular truth: Technology's transformative power is undeniable, but its true potential is only unlocked when strategic vision meets human skill.
This week in the news is a story about Walmart’s swift move to embrace AI-powered coding assistance and completion tools, which helped the retail giant save “4 million developer hours by streamlining deployments and delivering code faster with fewer bugs,” per Grocery Dive. Beyond time-savings, this also translated to real bottom-line dollars: Walmart’s revenue was up 4.1% ($180.6 billion) last year. Likewise, General Mills saved more than $20 million in 2024 after using AI to cut transportation costs and boost customer service levels, notes CIO Dive.
Tech giant Apple certainly knows the value of investing in technology. This week, the company announced its intention to spend $500 billion over the next four years for “construction of a large AI server factory in Texas,” as well as about 20,000 research and development jobs across the United States, Economic Times of India reports. Apple also plans to collaborate with Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co. to produce silicon chips at TSMC’s Arizona plant, doubling its advanced manufacturing budget from $5 billion to $10 billion.
Digital tools are also enabling supply chains to meet modern inventory management goals. For instance, AI and ML “create predictive insights and algorithm-based forecasting methods,” Supply Chain Brain reports. “By deploying these cutting-edge technologies, companies can build more resilient inventory management strategies — and gain a competitive advantage in the disrupted global supply chain.”
Still, there's a noteworthy contradiction within the tech and talent realm, which is top-of-mind for many workers today: Although innovation opens doors in many professions, it can negatively affect others. Case in point: AI-driven automation poses potential job displacement among coders, software testers and data analysts. Yet it also creates a wealth of new opportunities in research and development, predictive maintenance, and automated inventory management.
Another news item this week demonstrates this point: The International Longshoremen’s Association successfully negotiated a contract that guarantees employment even amid the introduction of automation. The union's strategic use of a short strike, coupled with political backing, resulted in significant job security provisions, illustrating how organized labor can help mitigate any negative impacts of technological advancements on employment.
The human element is paramount
There’s no doubt that the latest innovations drive supply chain progress; however, it's the people behind the technology who determine its ultimate impact. After all, the success of any tech investment hinges on a workforce that is equipped to use it to its full potential. This leads to the critical question of how organizations can cultivate the skills and engagement necessary to drive success. That’s where ASCM’s education comes in.
Through the Supply Chain Technology Certificate, you and your team will discover how predictive analytics, AI and robotics can enhance efficiency, reduce costs and mitigate risks across your network. You’ll learn how to use advanced forecasting technologies and data integration to improve supply chain reliability. And you’ll leverage blockchain to enhance transparency.
ASCM’s Certified in Transformation for Supply Chain designation takes this even further to enable true systems thinking and digital fluency for all types of networks. This industry-leading certification provides essential expertise for leading end-to-end supply chain transformation.
Align your talent capability and competencies to the technology investment that continues to permeate through almost every aspect of supply chain. Begin today.
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