Digital transformation is everywhere you look, but what exactly about this transformation enables the supply chain to be so much better with technologies? To better understand the possibilities available to companies that embrace digital transformation, on today’s episode of the Digital Enterprise Society podcast, Craig Brown and Thom Singer welcome IBM Associate Partner Melissa Drew.  Melissa has been in the procurement and supply chain for over 27 years and now sits at the intersection of procurement and AI technologies.  She has seen what it takes to execute a successful digital transformation, as well as the true role that agile methodology can- and should- play in companies today. 

 

On today’s podcast, you will learn:

Defining digital transformation in the supply chain

• Transformation is the act of changing from one form to another with an improved end result. 
• Digital transformation took off in 2007 with the adaptation of the cloud. 
• The supply chain is greatly enhanced with the digital technologies that meet rapidly changing consumer demands. 
• Better data is available through digital transformation. 

 

The impact of the digital transformation on people

• Short-term focus is a problem when thinking through the broader impact of the gains of reducing a workforce. 
• The digital transformation aim should be to automate repetitive tasks and tactile activities. 
• This transformation allows people to do what humans do best- the strategic relationships, thinking, analyzing, and application of the work that machines can’t do. 

 

AI and supply chain disruptions

• The pandemic placed an unprecedented strain on the supply chain resulting in a new kind of demand. 
• Can AI help solve supply chain disruptions and potential resiliency? Absolutely. 
• Where infrastructures and technologies are already in place, disruptions are significantly minimized. 

 

The ideal role of the agile methodology

• Agile methodology should be used for improved product development. 
• The SAFe agile methodology gives you a framework for the entire organization. 
• The best use of agile methodology is in innovative software that needs constant updates. 
• Agile methodology adaptation will only happen when the company can train, change, and transform the mindset of the entire company to adapt and follow it. 

 

Continue the conversation with us within the Digital Enterprise Society Community at www.DigitalEnterpriseSociety.org.

 

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