How AI is Enabling Agile Supply Chain Operations

An interview with Logility's President and CEO, Allan Dow, for the Executive Platforms' "The Blueprint" Podcast.

From geopolitical instability to labor shortages and sustainability demands, supply chain leaders must continuously evolve their strategies to stay competitive. Thankfully, artificial intelligence and generative AI offer powerful tools to build resilient, agile supply chain operations that can respond to the challenges of today and tomorrow.

Agile supply chains can handle the challenges we face now and in the future. Logility President and CEO, Allan Dow, spoke with The Blueprint podcast about how businesses can reimagine their supply chains.

AI - A Realized and Evolving Concept

Logility has long recognized the potential of AI to optimize supply chain management. "AI isn't a new concept for us-we've been working with it for almost ten years," Dow shared. However, while the technology has been around for some time, its application is evolving rapidly.

"AI needs to be built in, not bolted on," Dow emphasized. Many companies struggle when they try to layer commercially available AI solutions on top of their existing operations. The best they can get is surface-level insights, but this is just the beginning of what AI can offer. Logility embeds AI directly into its solutions, helping businesses to go beyond basic data analysis, and enables those businesses to take actions they might not have anticipated.

AI is no longer only about delivering insights; it's about enabling action.

Generative AI: Democratizing Agile Supply Chain Operations and Enhancing Employee Experience

The introduction of generative AI has brought a new level of interactivity and collaboration to the supply chain workforce. Dow pointed out that AI has long played a role in improving efficiency, but generative AI is different-it allows users to interact with supply chain systems in new ways.

"It's not just about getting insights anymore. With generative AI, we can answer the questions you didn't even know to ask, take actions on your behalf, and make recommendations on what to do," Dow explained.

Generative AI also plays a key role in enhancing departmental alignment. It makes real-time data and insights accessible across teams, creating a more collaborative and unified process.

Alignment across departments promotes quicker, more efficient responses to supply chain challenges, breaking down silos and fostering stronger connections between different areas of the business.

This technology helps the new generation of supply chain professionals, who expect more intuitive, interactive environments. These spaces allow them to move quickly and make confident decisions.

AI provides intuitive, user-friendly tools that align with their expectations of a modern, connected workplace. These tools improve operational efficiency and enhance employee experience by creating a more engaging, supportive work environment. As generative AI makes data more accessible, employees at all levels can help with decision-making. This boosts engagement and satisfaction in their jobs.

Integrating AI-driven tools into operations allows everyone in the supply chain-from senior decision-makers to frontline employees-to participate and contribute, making the process more collaborative and agile.

Addressing AI Concerns: False Information, Intellectual Property, and Getting Started

Despite the clear benefits of AI, many supply chain executives remain hesitant to fully embrace it. Common concerns include the complexity of implementation, the risk of false information, and protecting intellectual property.

Dow addressed these three major concerns head-on, offering practical advice for leaders ready to take the next step.

1. Are we ready to implement AI?

Dow's answer is simple: Yes, you are ready, and the key is to get started. "Pick a use case-somewhere you have blind spots or recurring issues-and start there," he advised. "By focusing on these trouble areas first, supply chain leaders can build confidence in AI's capabilities and gradually scale their efforts across more complex operations."

Starting small helps businesses trust this technology. It also allows them to use early successes for bigger projects. Focusing on blind spots provides immediate value and enables teams to address critical areas of improvement from the outset.

2. How do we prevent false information?

A major concern with AI is the potential for false data to influence decision-making. To mitigate this risk, Logility designs its AI solutions to work within a company's existing data infrastructure. This isolates the application to only use accurate and relevant data.

3. What about intellectual property concerns?

Protecting intellectual property is another critical issue for businesses adopting AI. Dow reassured listeners that Logility's AI is developed in-house, with strict controls around data access. Limiting third-party involvement helps Logility protect sensitive data and intellectual property.

The time to act is now!

For supply chain leaders, the message is clear: AI and generative AI are not just tools for the future. They are essential for building resilient, agile supply chains today. As companies face increasing pressures from labor shortages, sustainability demands, and geopolitical instability, AI offers a path forward that can help them navigate these challenges.

Logility designs solutions to help businesses survive and thrive in an ever-changing environment. Embedding AI into supply chain operations unlocks new levels of efficiency, improves departmental alignment, and creates a more empowered and satisfied workforce. This collaborative approach enhances operations but also drives long-term success.

If you're ready to take the next step in reimagining your supply chain, now is the time to act. Start small, focus on key use cases, and let AI guide your organization toward a more resilient, future-proof supply chain.

Ready to reimagine your supply chain?

In a time when supply chains are more complex and competitive, businesses must pause and rethink their strategies. Let's talk about Logility's AI-driven solutions and how we can help your business.

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