Today’s business landscape lacks a dependable supply chain that handles the efficient movement of materials and goods.
Prior to the crisis and the COVID-19 pandemic, most consumers did not consider the supply chain when purchasing goods. However, the supply chain is now part of the mainstream news cycle and a topic of everyday conversation.
Some say that supply chain management has changed drastically. This wave of change means new challenges and trends that managers and businesses need to be aware of.
The following are four supply chain trends to keep an eye on today:
1. Businesses Today Incorporate Sustainability
Sustainability in the supply chain is no longer an afterthought or a deliberate attempt to attract environmentally conscious customers. It is now an essential component of business management, particularly in the supply chain.
Wood and paper are the two most common packaging and shipping container materials. Wood, when harvested responsibly, can be an environmentally friendly material with a lower impact on greenhouse gas emissions than steel or plastic. It has the added benefit of being renewable, reusable, and recyclable.
Aircraft Crating Inc. prioritizes sustainable and reusable packaging.
2. Supply Chain Talent
Supply chain talent is critical to sustaining industry advancements. Consequently, people at all levels of the supply chain should be prepared to encounter new ways of working. Expect an integration of training, better compensation, and benefits for current employees, as well as the hiring of talents with skills in data analytics.
3. Cloud-Based Solutions
Cloud-based solutions, other than sustainability, are a major focus in almost every industry. The supply chain favors cloud-based solutions to avoid expensive on-premise computing systems and infrastructure. Gartner predicts that 28 percent of key IT spending will shift to the cloud by this year. Cloud-based solutions will provide supply chain flexibility, scalability, and global reach.
4. Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning
Artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning will play a more significant role in the supply chain than ever. They are essential for easily integrating people, processes, and systems in a variety of operational settings. Within the supply chain, AI can assist in identifying key patterns, automating warehousing processes, and improving inventory management. These instances can help you save a lot of time and money.
These are just a few of the many trends to look out for in 2022.