The secret is to start with the desired business outcome, not the system. Before choosing a new platform or AI capability, organisations need to be clear on what they are trying to improve, whether that is service, cost, agility, or resilience.
From there, a phased transition is usually more effective than a full ‘rip and replace’. It reduces disruption, proves value earlier, and helps build confidence across the business.
Technology must also be matched with the right operating model. Legacy processes, poor governance, and siloed decision-making can be just as limiting as outdated systems, so these need to be addressed at the same time.
SCALA’s latest report found that over half (57 percent) of businesses could not continue sales order processing or purchasing if their main system failed, which shows why system modernisation needs to be approached with care and as a priority business continuity issue.
Finally, businesses should make better use of the data they already have and improve iteratively. Once the foundations are in place, new capabilities can be scaled, with human judgement and technology working together to support faster, smarter supply chain decisions over time.
Adam Coventry
Executive Director, SCALA
The Question is a thought leadership series published on Supply Chain Outlook, created to explore the questions shaping global logistics, procurement, transportation, and supply networks.
This edition of The Question is sponsored by Syspro.
Supply Chain Outlook features leadership insights and company stories from organisations helping to move, manage, and transform the flow of goods, services, and information around the world.
Produced as part of the Outlook Publishing global network of B2B industry magazines, The Question brings focused executive insight to audiences engaged with the people, technologies, and decisions shaping the future of supply chain.
