We keep hearing about the potential of the Internet of Things (IOT), but how will it help supply chain professionals specifically? Last week, Industrial Distribution ran “Improving Process Flows in the Delivery System through the Internet of Things,” which outlines the practical applications of IOT.
“As the development and deployment of the IOT capabilities continues to expand, [transportation and logistics] companies could eventually have visibility into every operation across the entire supply chain, from the source of the raw materials to the end use of the product,” writes Thomas Schied, vice president and director of asset management for TD Band Equipment Finance.
IOT connects devices to the internet and collects data, but Schied stresses the value is in knowing how, when and where to use the data. Predictive analytics enables business leaders to make calculations that will increase efficiencies, reduce spending and improve overall processes. For example, data from sensors can be combined with historical data to establish when assets need to be replaced. Likewise, transportation and logistics companies can use sensor data and geographic and environmental information to customize truck maintenance plans.
Further, IOT data and analytics supports organizational decision making, as experts alter routes to prevent bottlenecks at loading docks and changing inventory locations. This information improves on-time delivery and reduces fuel and labor costs.
With all the promises of IOT, Schied does mention likely challenges. These include the potential of security breaches, a reallocation of current jobs and business disruption.
“Additionally, the IOT is expensive and time consuming to implement, and the more parts of a business that are integrated into an IOT system, the more disruptions that business could face,” Schied writes. “However, integration can be conducted in stages over the course of several years.”
He adds, “As we see logistics and supply chains become more complex, implementation of IOT is necessary.”
We’ve transformed our business to help transform yours
IOT is one example of how the world of supply chain is rapidly evolving. Technological advances combined with a renewed focus on sustainability and more, make staying ahead of the curve a challenge for corporations. That’s where we come in. In January 2019, we are officially launching the Association for Supply Chain Management (ASCM). This is more than a new name or a rebrand, this is an entirely new association. With ASCM, we expand our reach and broaden our impact, becoming the leader on all things supply chain. Plus, we’ll still do what we’ve always done — give your supply chain team the tools they need to advance their careers and create value for your company.
Make sure you know the latest about ASCM by visiting our new website, ascm.org, and by connecting to us on LinkedIn.
Finally, I wish you and your families good health and prosperity during this holiday season and beyond. Thank you for your continued support of APICS and ASCM.
