- Digital business automation is among the most important innovations in logistics. Technology is shifting towards smart manufacturing, which is likely to transform product delivery systems. Although the manufacturing sector has not fully harnessed the concept of industry 4.0, future logistics might integrate disruptive innovation in its systems (Dash et al. 1798). The growth of virtual payment systems, such as e-commerce and mobile pay structures, is part of logistics Currently, consumers’ interest and trends are geared towards home deliveries, which are bound to shape future logistics. Nonetheless, organizations are focusing on cost reduction, efficiency, flexibility, stability, and sustainability in response to market needs. Variations in the global payment structures and anticipated shorter delivery timelines are necessitating progressive logistical approaches, hence the need for automated logistics supported by disruptive technology.
Disruptive technology is expected to reduce delays and sorting challenges experienced in warehousing operations. Singh projects that autonomous fleet in deliveries will enhance efficiency in the future (par. 3). For instance, the application of automated robots is anticipated to enhance delivery of orders (Singh, par. 3). Additionally, the utilization of the Internet of Things (IoT) will revolutionize organizations logistics, leading to greater efficiency and low fuel consumption (Dash et al. 1798; Singh par. 3). Disruptive technology, such as smart warehouse automation, robotics, drones, and data analytics are expected to respond to future trends in supply chain and consumer delivery expectations.
The Amazon Company seeks to take advantage of predictive analytics to deliver its products without the limitation of distance and time. According to Singh, the search optimization engine will help Amazon predict shopping trends. For instance, the company builds its capacity to ascertain the number of virtual searches conducted on products, such as iPhones, at a given timeline. Through predictive analytics, the company can influence purchasing decision and deliver products in real time (Singh). The anticipatory shipping is also set to develop new delivery paradigms by reducing both inventory and warehousing costs. The use of anticipatory shipping and predictive analytics will allow the company to deliver products to the nearest consumer’s location before the actual purchase (Singh). Application of disruptive models in logistics will enhance innovation, which could lead to virtual optimization of all logistical needs, hence end the traditional freight management systems.
- Supply chain directors and managers at the highest position in supply chain companies have a responsibility for overseeing inventories and logistics. They guarantee efficiency and productivity within the delivery systems and manage the relationship between vendors and distributors for customers’ satisfaction. As a consultant, I would make recommendations for logistics management roles to shift towards research and innovation while integrating information technology in logistics. The human resources policy should also cover perspectives of engineering and disruptive technology in logistics management to include emerging expectations in the sector.
- The Institute of Supply Chain Management (ISM) is a global non-profit organization with its headquarters in Arizona, United States. The Mission statement is, “We advance the practice of supply management to drive value and competitive advantage, and contribute to a prosperous, sustainable world” (Institute of Supply Chain Management). A management team of professional backgrounds led by the Chief Executive Officer Mr. Thomas Derry coordinates the activities of ISM. It is a membership-based organization with its affiliates structured in three cadres of individual membership, corporates, student, and academic subscribers (Institute of Supply Chain Management). The organization is committed to improving supply management practices and integrating automation and digital innovations for efficiency and cost saving.
The organization offers various internationally recognized certifications in the industry. The accreditations include Certified Professional in Supply Management (CPSM) and Certified Professional in Supply Diversity (CPSD) (Institute of Supply Chain Management). It delivers its models through flexible schedules of guided and self-paced learning using an e-learning platform. Professionals with ISM certification have proof of competency in supply management and can build innovation and create a niche for supply chain programs. They also gain a competitive advantage over their peers in the job market.
Works Cited
Dash, Kishan, et al. “Smart Manufacturing & Future Prospects on Logistics.” International Research Journal of Engineering and Technology, vol. 5, no. 11, 2018, pp. 1798-1800.
Institute of Supply Chain Management. “Home.” 2019, www.instituteforsupplymanagement.org/index.cfm?SSO=1. Accessed 15 Feb. 2019.
Singh, Sarwant. “Future of Logistics: Five Technologies That Will Self-Orchestrate the Supply Chain.” Forbes, 22 Sep. 2016, www.forbes.com/sites/sarwantsingh/2016/09/22/future-of-logistics-5-technologies-that-will-self-orchestrate-the-supply-chain/#116b1f1e5a63. Accessed 15 Feb. 2019.