Composite artificial intelligence (AI) and supply chain data governance are the highest impact technology trends for supply chain planning (SCP) leaders, according to Gartner, Inc.
"SCP leaders are in the process of developing transformation roadmaps that will prioritize delivering on advanced decision intelligence and automated decision making," says Eva Dawkins, director analyst in Gartner’s Supply Chain practice. "Composite AI, which is the combined application of different AI techniques to improve learning efficiency, will drive the optimization and automation of many planning activities at scale, while supply chain data governance is the foundational key for digital transformation.”
Key takeaways:
- As supply chain decision makers look to improve the decision-making process, they are targeting supply chain technology investments.
- Composite AI trend is increasingly important to SCP leaders as uncertainty, complexity and the drive for automation must factor into their plans and objectives. Broadening the portfolio of AI techniques used (rather than seeking a one-size-fits-all approach) is the first step to optimizing and automating SCP activities.
- Supply Chain Data Governance ensures data quality by formalizing the framework in which supply chain data is identified, defined, controlled and accessed, both internally and externally. Establishing or evolving supply chain data governance capabilities is often a preparatory activity for organizations embarking on a digital transformation journey. Relevant, accurate and complete data is necessary to establish trust and encourage adoption by end users.
“A sound data governance strategy supports advanced technologies, such as composite AI, while also facilitating collaboration throughout the supply chain technology ecosystem,” says Dawkins. “Without attention to data governance, SCP leaders will likely struggle to achieve their expected ROI on key technology investments.”
