Supply chains: getting a competitive advantage through tech

Technological innovations have been at the forefront of the development of virtually every industry over the past few decades. Tech solutions have enabled businesses to have a competitive advantage over each other. Facing increasing product complexity, globalization, and higher customer demands has meant that companies had to use every weapon at their disposal to ensure their survival in the market. Moreover, it’s essential that a business thrives and continues to bring revenue, and to achieve this, you must ensure that your enterprise continues to deliver high-quality products that keep your clientele satisfied.

One of the areas that have seen quite a lot of interest recently is that of supply chains. Entrepreneurs have realized that transforming this network into the epicenter of their business innovation is a winning strategy. After all, the supply chain is the backbone of any business. If it functions well, all other processes will be more efficient.

But what are the solutions that show the most promise, and what are the connections with different niches? Can the Ethereum price make a difference? And what about analytics and location tracking? Let’s have a closer look at the tech posed to change supply operations for the better.

 

Blockchain 

Perhaps the most popular tech development on this list, blockchain, is typically associated with cryptocurrencies. However, ledger technology can be used in more ways than one. In the case of supply chains, it can be used to improve transparency and visibility. As the blockchain cannot be altered after the information has been entered into the system, the tech is well-equipped to track the provenance of goods. As a result, it can establish trusted supplier information, which helps improve business. It is also crucial in the case the involved parties have competing agendas and aren’t likely to trust each other by default.

Using the blockchain also means that no information will ever be lost. It is more effective than traditional methods such as email or even earlier forms of electronic record keeping, according to experts. The track-and-trace function enables your company to document the custody of goods. This helps prevent leakage, identifies counterfeits, combats fraud and helps demonstrate that regulatory requirements are met accordingly.

Crypto, blockchain’s most famous use case, can also promote more efficient operations within your business by allowing you to complete transactions directly. Crypto removes the need for intermediaries, facilitating the integration of financial services and ensuring efficient communications between stakeholders. If you’re looking for a cryptocurrency to integrate into your supply network, you should go for the names that are already well-established in the industry. Ethereum is one of the best examples, as its longevity on the market also means that it can provide users with a certain level of trust that other blockchains and crypto cannot.

 

Artificial intelligence 

It should come as no surprise that artificial intelligence is part of this list. There has been much discussion surrounding AI, as well as its features. While some are convinced that it is the technology that will unquestionably change the world for the better, others warn about its potential risks. Personal privacy violations, unclear legal responsibility, job loss and lack of implementation traceability are just a few of the possible issues that could arise with the use of artificial intelligence.

However, AI and machine learning can also be used efficiently to improve the inner workings of supply chains. Artificial intelligence can be used across all areas of the network. In manufacturing, machines can be used to rapidly analyze, compute and make real-time decisions, saving time and reducing the possibility of human error. Increasing accuracy and productivity keeps operational costs low and makes it easier to avoid lapses in production.

Artificial intelligence can also be employed to improve the overall customer experience. By gathering the necessary data, it enables you to make sounder decisions regarding the products you need to include. Analytics is one of the most critical aspects that help supply chains work optimally. Relying on details and data quality to deliver beneficial outcomes is the key to success in supply chain management.

 

3D printing 

Personalized products are highly-prized by customers nowadays. The reason for this is quite simple. As businesses are starting to cater to every need and there’s a product for virtually everything, it has become rather difficult to distinguish which is the better option to choose. When you’re out shopping, you’ll notice that you’re often presented with several different options for roughly the same product. There are many brands that occupy the same market niche nowadays. Faced with too many options, most customers will likely pick randomly. And while this means that your products will be chosen as well, it also means that your competitors will also be selected over you. You want to avoid this scenario, or at least make it less likely to happen.

On top of that, one of the essential aspects for clients nowadays is sustainability. Many are likely to stop shopping at a store or brand if they discover sustainability requirements aren’t met. As a result, local manufacturing and shipping and items made-to-order have become more commonplace. These changes have resulted in entrepreneurs looking towards 3D printing solutions to deliver a customized experience.

The emergence of new materials and technologies has meant that businesses can relocate production closer to home. Using 3D printing during manufacturing will help you cut back on logistics and transportation. Your company’s carbon footprint will be significantly reduced, helping your brand become greener and more eco-conscious. From a consumer satisfaction standpoint, it also helps deliver products faster, which is a positive aspect for clients nowadays who are on a constant lookout for speedy delivery.

Your company also avoids huge investments in warehouse space and inventory. As such, you can provide better customer service, one of the chief aspects of ensuring business growth.

 

The bottom line 

The supply chain is one of the most critical aspects of your business. Ensuring that it works well offers you a competitive advantage over other companies. It helps you be more resilient on the market and pursue all your business goals and aims with the certainty that you have a solid foundation to back you up.