Data integration is the biggest challenge facing supply chain managers working in a global ecosystem of suppliers, service providers and customers. Multiple departments, systems and processes, often working in siloes with varying tasks, responsibilities, conflicts of interest and enterprise resource planning modules, create a patchwork of data points.
This makes it difficult for supply chain managers to access and analyse information that gives them both the ‘big picture’ and granular detail. There are multiple reasons for this - fragmented data, unstandardised message types, process differences or low rates of tech adoption.
With restricted visibility, effective decision-making becomes a challenge. Thankfully, digital solutions have evolved to solve these challenges. 4PL providers are helping organisations manage resources, technology and infrastructure - integrating and directing every supply chain component.