SupplyChain Magazine August 2018 | Page 169

MIDDLE EAST

“ People see digitalisation as a threat as they translate it to job losses , but I see it as an opportunity where it can make our jobs easier , better , faster and more fulfilling ”

— Benjamin van Zyl , Chief Procurement & Contracts Officer
169 firm aims to create a ‘ holistic ’ approach to digitisation .
“ We have introduced digital touchpoints that enable us to monitor and secure our network ,” he says . “ The Telkom Group is working with SAP Ariba to digitalise the source to settle process to free up resources from tactical work . We are also exploring the use of robotics to automate various processes .”
The South African firm has also implemented a forecasting and planning tool to improve delivery , optimise inventory and reduce working capital . On top of this , it has also created an innovative control tower to improve supply chain visibility , conduct analytics and improve efficiency in its supply chain .
With a next-generation fibre network , Openserve has provided a gateway for communities to connect . However , the company doesn ’ t underestimate the potential of emerging technologies like robotics , machine learning , artificial intelligence ( AI ) and automation .
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