TECHNOLOGY
we know , from a supply chain planning perspective , where things ought to be so we can steer the operator or logistics planner towards those things . Through predictive mechanisms and algorithms we can also predict that there will be an interruption affecting any particular shipment . “ You always have to consider proba-bilities ,” he continues . “ Say a vessel is on its way from the US coast towards a UK port and there ’ s a storm on the way . This could potentially disrupt the harbour operation . This may also affect the supply to a certain factory . With this information you can then make a decision that influences the vessel itself . For example , you could redirect it to a different port .”
Kaltenbrunner believes the value of this information is something that cannot be underplayed and will lead to a more intelligent supply chain . Early visibility of potential disruptions will allow businesses and organisations to plan production and distribution more effectively . Indeed , as our conversation draws to a close , he predicts a future spearheaded by innovation that will lead us to a point where previous cost
38 April 2018