ASK A SUPPLY CHAIN FUTURIST: WHAT’S THE FUTURE OF LOGISTICS AND TRANSPORTATION?

How are companies asking supply chain futurists and keynote speakers to assist? Types of projects and virtual speaking engagements that they’re typically involved in might be…

• Forecasting long-term trends – Analyzing technological, economic, consumer behavior, and competitive landscape shifts to predict future trends and disruptions. A top request of supply chain futurists as of late.
• Strategic planning – Helping companies adapt supply chain strategies to prepare for predicted challenges and opportunities. May involve things like adding distribution centers, localization, omnichannel models etc.
• Technology scouting – Identifying new technologies on the horizon that could enable innovations in logistics, inventory management, production etc. from a supply chain futurist’s perspective.
• Piloting emerging tech – Experimenting with and implementing cutting edge technologies like AI, IoT sensors, drones, driverless delivery etc.
• Designing new supply chain models – Envisioning and pioneering future-forward supply chain archetypes and frameworks. For example, distributed manufacturing or on-demand production.
• Overseeing complex initiatives – Leading highly complex efforts like global supply chain transformations, localization projects, merger integrations etc.
• Mitigating future risks – Anticipating long-term vulnerabilities as supply chain futurists see them like trade wars, climate change disruptions, resource scarcity etc. and advising companies on how to avoid and prepare for them.
• Public speaking and publishing – Giving keynote speeches, writing articles and books to promote awareness of supply chain innovations.
• Educating future talent – Teaching courses and developing curriculum focused on the supply chain strategies, technologies and best practices of the future.
• Advising executives and boards – As supply chain futurists, providing guidance to senior leadership on long-term supply chain vision, investment priorities, and organizational capabilities needed.