**US**: A recent survey reveals that 75% of supply chain professionals are interested in using AI to automate processes. Challenges such as fragmented systems and limited real-time data insights identified, with many believing AI can enhance operations despite concerns over data security and reliability.
A recent survey conducted by FourKites in collaboration with research firm YouGov has indicated a growing interest among U.S. supply chain leaders in employing artificial intelligence (AI) to automate routine processes and tackle inefficiencies within their systems. This survey, which involved 250 supply chain professionals, uncovered several significant challenges within the sector, including fragmented technology infrastructures, persistent supply chain blind spots, and a lack of real-time insights, as published in FourKites’ report titled “Why You Should Rethink Your Supply Chain Tech.”
The findings from the survey reveal that a notable 75% of respondents utilise between three and ten different platforms to make supply chain decisions, highlighting the complexity and fragmented nature of the technology landscape in the industry. Furthermore, only 20% of organisations reported achieving real-time visibility into at least 75% of their supply chain operations.
Key insights from the survey include:
- 38% of respondents identified supply chain blind spots as the most significant limitation of their existing technology.
- A significant 80% of organisations noted that less than 75% of their supply chain data is available in real time.
- 30% of larger companies indicated that intricate workflows across multiple systems hinder them from fully leveraging their technology investments.
- Two-thirds of those surveyed reported that assessing the impact of disruptions takes four hours or longer.
- An overwhelming 75% of supply chain leaders believe that AI has the potential to automate between 25% and 75% of routine supply chain tasks.
- Furthermore, 22% of shippers with revenues exceeding $1 billion rated their supply chain control tower as highly effective in driving action.
AI is increasingly seen as a viable solution for automating various supply chain functions, which could include carrier communications, appointment scheduling, exception management, and administrative tasks such as system entries and reporting. Many respondents suggested that integrating AI could lead to enhanced customer satisfaction, improved On-Time In-Full (OTIF) performance, and reduced labour costs. Notably, however, over 40% expressed concerns regarding potential data security issues, the reliability of AI systems, and associated costs.
Mathew Elenjickal, founder and CEO of FourKites, commented on the findings, stating, “Companies in every industry are telling us the same thing: they’re drowning in data but starving for action. Too many companies have invested in multiple systems only to end up with low-quality data, limited insights, and inadequate decision-making capabilities.” He further noted, “It’s clear the industry needs a breakthrough: a single source of truth connecting existing systems that empowers a digital workforce of AI agents to take action.”
The full results of the survey can be found in FourKites’ comprehensive report, “Why You Should Rethink Your Supply Chain Tech.” The report details the challenges faced by supply chain professionals and explores the role of AI in transforming supplier relationship management and improving overall operational efficiency in the sector.
Source: Noah Wire Services
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