Supply chain & operation | Services and solutions | Inotia

Increasing visibility across the supply chain while keeping costs low can be achieved through strategies such as prioritizing key nodes and critical paths, leveraging technology for data analysis, collaborating with suppliers and partners, implementing standardized processes, using a combination of structural and dynamic visibility, and continuously monitoring and updating the supply chain. Full visibility may not be necessary to reap tangible benefits, and a strategic approach can help maintain performance during disruptions.

Companies’ belief in growing without changing their manufacturing footprints is virtually non-existent, with only 1 percent of surveyed executives at large companies holding this view, according to Accenture’s survey of over 1,000 executives. The survey reveals that change is not only necessary but also the only option for businesses in today’s dynamic environment.

Businesses are actively taking steps to adapt their supply chain strategies. A remarkable 94 percent of North American companies are planning direct investment in reshoring, indicating a shift from simply surviving disruptions to rethinking how their supply chain foundations can drive resilience and competitive advantage in future scenarios.

Supply chains are now viewed as engines for growth rather than just cost centers, with the potential to positively impact businesses, society, and the planet. It is crucial to closely examine how the second wave of changes in the global supply chain is shaping up and its implications for businesses and stakeholders.

Many companies recognize the importance of improving visibility in their supply chain operations, but often overlook the broader measures that can help them derive financial, strategic, and operational value from it. This is where a properly constructed supply chain control tower (SCCT) comes into play. A true SCCT brings together people, processes, data intelligence, and autonomous execution to identify and orchestrate changes that drive real value and impact. Not all SCCTs are created equal, and it’s essential to create one that is capable of helping you build future resilience. By going beyond visibility and leveraging the full potential of a well-designed SCCT, you can unlock value, optimize operations, and enhance your supply chain performance for long-term success.

The rise of e-commerce and new business models has transformed the traditional role of warehouses from mere storage facilities to linchpins of customer relationships. The right application of automation and autonomy in warehouse operations can result in lower costs, improved delivery times, and overall business resilience and sustainability. However, many companies are struggling to drive returns due to a mixed approach of innovation and outdated, quick-fix solutions. It is crucial to understand how warehouse functions are changing and identify key elements that can turn warehouses into drivers of growth. By reimagining warehouse operations, embracing innovation, and implementing sustainable strategies, businesses can unlock the full potential of their warehouses and achieve long-term success in today’s dynamic business environment. To learn more about this transformation, explore further resources on this topic.

Most manufacturers recognize the importance of adopting automation to optimize their operations and control costs. However, two significant challenges often slow down these efforts. First, applying solutions to multiple assets, lines, and functions can be complex and time-consuming. Second, existing manufacturing operations management (MOM) architectures may not be able to handle the massive amounts of data required for effective automation. Digital twins offer a solution by unifying and contextualizing data from multiple sources, creating a one-stop shop for intelligent automation that can maximize productivity and position manufacturers for future competitiveness. Digital twins change the game for autonomous operation in five key ways. They break down silos by integrating data from various sources, enable real-time monitoring and decision-making, provide a holistic view of operations, empower the workforce with actionable insights, and evolve to adapt to changing business needs. By leveraging digital twins, manufacturers can overcome these challenges and unlock the full potential of automation for their operations, leading to increased productivity, improved efficiency, and enhanced competitiveness in the ever-evolving manufacturing landscape. To learn more about the transformative impact of digital twins, explore further resources on this topic.