It comes down to getting the data foundations right. Businesses often rush to invest in new technology, but without connected, real-time data, even the most advanced tools struggle to deliver results.
As AI moves so fast, building a scalable, supportable platform is key. Many legacy systems operate in silos, making it difficult for organisations to respond quickly when disruption hits, whether that’s a tariff change, shipping delay, or supplier issue. The businesses adapting fastest are the ones with clear visibility across their operations and access to live data they can trust and act on confidently.
That’s where AI becomes far more valuable. With the right data in place, instead of solely reacting to disruption, businesses can use AI to identify warning signs early, test different scenarios, and understand the potential impact of changes before they happen.
The good news is that modernising a supply chain doesn’t have to mean replacing everything overnight. In many cases, the most effective approach is to start small by identifying one weak spot in the supply chain and improving the quality, accessibility, and speed of the data in that area first. From there, businesses can build a more connected and resilient supply chain over time.
Martin Tombs
Field CTO EMEA, Qlik
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.
