As I traversed the globe this year, engaging in discussions with various C-level executives, both from major multinationals and local mid-size regional organizations, I delved into their primary concerns within the realm of supply chain planning. From these dialogues, and when removing the #DDMRP discussions, five key themes emerged. Undoubtedly, these themes will shape my perspective in 2024, and hopefully, they resonate with you.
1. Results-Driven Boardrooms
CEOs and CFOs are increasingly demanding tangible results. The focus is squarely on delivering promised efficiencies, cost savings, and resilience. They are weary of hype and now seek to witness a genuine impact on the bottom line.
2. Anticipating the AI Wave
The anticipation of AI's transformative impact on supply chain planning is palpable, with Chat-GBT leading this debate. Everyone is gearing up for AI's wave, but interestingly not in the traditional areas of forecasting and optimization, but in the realms of scenario modelling, analytics, communication, and collaboration.
3. Simplification and User-Centric Efficiency
Executives universally prioritize simplification. Removing complexity and getting the basics right are strongly emphasized. They seek assurance that procedures and processes are correct and being followed; planners are well-trained and supported, and they can effectively leverage their tools to speed up decision-making. They all aim to avoid complex solutions that are difficult to install, use, and maintain.
4. Resilience and Agility while being Green
Executives increasingly emphasize strategies to enhance supply chain resilience, enabling swift responses to unforeseen disruptions. They want supply chain planning methodologies and tools to be more adaptive and responsive to changing market conditions. But they also want to be Green! Sustainability is not just a buzzword but a criterion by which executives measure their supply chain's success. Mother Nature is fast becoming the number one disruptor of a company’s ability to supply.
5. Data Security Priority
Amid the move to SaaS solutions, data security is a resonant theme. Despite the obvious cost savings and efficiencies, C-level executives emphasize the critical nature of protecting sensitive supply chain information. Being ISO27001 and SOC2 compliance is no longer a unique selling point but a fundamental requirement of any SaaS solution.
In conclusion, these five themes, gathered from my journey across global boardrooms this year, paint a picture of a supply chain planning landscape in flux. The demand for results, the anticipation of AI's impact, the commitment to simplification and user-centric efficiency, a global green resurgence while being resilient and agile, and the paramount importance of data security are shaping my narrative for supply chain planning in 2024.
