What is a Digital Supply Chain?

The digital supply chain refers to the use of digital technologies to manage and optimize the flow of goods, information, and services from the raw materials stage through to the end customer. The digital supply chain integrates various digital technologies, such as cloud computing, the internet of things (IoT), artificial intelligence (AI), and analytics, to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of supply chain operations.

The digital supply chain allows for real-time tracking and visibility of goods and information, which can help to improve decision-making and reduce inefficiencies and waste. It also enables companies to automate and optimize various supply chain processes, such as demand forecasting, inventory management, and transportation.

In addition to improving operational efficiency, the digital supply chain also enables companies to offer more personalized and responsive services to customers. For example, companies can use data from the supply chain to better understand customer preferences and tailor their products and services accordingly.

Overall, the digital supply chain represents a significant shift in the way that goods and services are produced, distributed, and consumed, and it is expected to have a major impact on the global economy in the coming years.

Companies are adopting digital tools and practices to transform their supply chains, such as:

• Robotics and automation: Robotics and automation are being used to automate tasks in warehouses and factories, such as picking, packing, and shipping.
• Artificial intelligence (AI): AI is being used to power predictive analytics, optimize decision-making, and improve customer service.
• The cloud: The cloud is being used to store and process data, and to run supply chain applications.

Specific examples of how companies are transforming their supply chains into a digital one:

• Walmart: Walmart is using a combination of digital technologies, such as RFID tags, sensors, and big data analytics, to track the movement of goods throughout its supply chain. This has helped Walmart to reduce its inventory levels, improve its order fulfillment accuracy, and save money.
• Nike: Nike is using 3D printing to create customized shoes for its customers. This allows Nike to reduce waste and improve its production efficiency.
• Amazon: Amazon is using drones to deliver packages to customers. This is a more efficient and environmentally friendly way to deliver goods.

Digital SCM Quotes

• “Not everything that can be counted counts, and not everything that counts can be counted.” ~ Albert Einstein
• “The goal is to turn data into information, and information into insight.” ~ Carly Fiorina, Former CEO of HP
• “The world is one big data problem.” ~ Andrew McAfee
• “It is today we must create the world of the future.” ~ Eleanor Roosevelt
• “The man who can make hard things easy is the educator.” ~ Ralph Waldo Emerson 
• “If you are currently getting inaccurate reports will investing in big data just get you bad reports faster? Process changes may be needed.” ~EverythingSupplyChain.com
• “The important thing is not to stop questioning.” ~ Albert Einstein
• “The digital supply chain has the potential to completely change supply chain. However, do your due diligence before rushing in.” ~EverythingSupplyChain.com
• “The temptation to form premature theories upon insufficient data is the bane of our profession.” ~ Sherlock Holmes, fictional detective

Supply Chain Training.

• A Brief History of Big Data.
• Apple Supply Chain Management.
• Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning Basics.  Five minute video.
• Big Data Analytics for supply chain beginners.  Two minute video.
• Big Data Challenges and Opportunities.
• Blockchain and the Internet of Things (IoT) explained.  Two minute video.
• Deep Learning: Big Data Intelligence.
• Deep Learning Self-Driving Cars.
• DHL makes augmented reality a standard in logistics.  Three minute video.
• IKEA Supply Chain Innovation.
• Internet of Things IoT Logistics: Connected World.   Seven minute video.
• IoT Supply Chain Management.  Five minute video.
• Logistics IoT. The Logistics Internet Explained.  Four minute video.
• Smarter Supply Chains: Leveraging IoT and Big Data.
• Steve Jobs Apple Supply Chain Quotes.
• Supply Chain Automation Quotes.
• Supply Chain Information and Resources.
• Take Inside Look at Apple’s Supply Chain.
• The Delivery Robot Will Change the Logistics Landscape
• Understand the Blockchain in Two Minutes.  Two minute video.
• What is blockchain?  Two minute video.
• What is Machine Learning?  Two minute video.

Digital Supply Chain Resources

“Don’t let the digital supply chain scare you.  Big Data, IoT, and Cloud are just ways to improve the supply chain.” ~SupplyChainToday.com.

“Blockchain is key technology in the digital supply chain.” ~EverythingsupplyChain.com

“Deep learning will revolutionalize supply chain automation.” ~Dave Waters

“Blockbuster? Digital changed the way we rent movies.  How will the digital supply chain impact the way we do business.?” ~EverythingSupplyChain

“the Internet of things (IoT) will impact supply chain in so many ways.  Either learn about it, or get left behind.” ~EverythingSupplyChain.com

“The digital supply chain has the potential to completely change supply chain.  However, do your due diligence before rushing in.” ~EverythingSupplyChain.com

“If people trust artificial intelligence (AI) to drive a car, peopel will most likely trust AI to do your job.” ~Dave Waters