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4flow trend monitor
Digital technologies
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Network technology
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Future computing
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Wearable technologies
Looking into the future of supply chain technology
In addition to AI, a number of digital technologies promise to transform supply chain management in the future with advancements in supply chain transparency, connectivity and efficiency. While some, like quantum computing, still need time before they are available for widespread business use, others are already being implemented in supply chains today.
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Contact usNetwork technology – in focus
Affected industries: Industries with just-in-time (JIT) production and industries that have a high degree of automation like manufacturing or retail
Affected supply chain segments: Transportation, warehousing
The backbone of interconnectedness
Network technology in supply chain refers to the technological developments that are the backbone of integrated logistics operations, where information and data exchange is crucial. Developments in autonomous driving rely on next-generation connectivity (e.g., 5G, 6G), while many Internet of things (IoT) applications rely on low-power network technology like RFID.
Related developments
5G on demand
Deutsche Telekom is testing a concept to locally enhance 5G networks on demand to enable stable data connections for drone delivery.
Blockchain for customs processes
DHL is working on various projects that evaluate the benefit of using blockchain technology in end-to-end integration of customs into supply chain processes.
GPS across a global fleet
Hapag-Lloyd announced it will equip the majority of its 3 million-TEU container fleet with GPS-based tracking devices.
Facets of this trend
- Next-generation connectivity (e.g., 5G, 6G, etc.)
- Internet of things enabler technology (e.g., RFID, GPS, and more)
- Distributed ledger technology (e.g., blockchain)
Getting ahead of the trend
Real-time tracking and accurate ETA prediction can yield a real competitive advantage on the transportation market. To keep pace with the competition, logistics service providers should evaluate the integration of network technology devices into their assets.
Future computing – in focus
Affected industries: All industries that rely on optimization
Affected supply chain segments: Transportation, warehousing, value-added services
Overcoming barriers of traditional computation
Supply chain optimization involves tasks like network optimization or solving vehicle routing problems. Although these problems are scientifically well explored, they often get too large to take every single problem dimension into consideration when calculating optimal solutions. Future computing like quantum computing and supercomputing promise to overcome existing calculation barriers and open new possibilities for optimization.
Related developments
Public funding on the rise
The race for computational power
Driving future computing
A research initiative that consists of 30 project partners and is led by Infineon is aiming to develop an automotive supercomputing platform to host AI algorithms for autonomous driving.
Facets of this trend
- Supercomputing
- Quantum computing
Getting ahead of the trend
Future computing is still in an early stage. In the near future, businesses will not be able to compute large or complex problems on their own hardware, but will instead rely on computation as a service from data centers. Quantum algorithms are being tested for small problem instances, but the technology is not yet ready to create competitive advantages.
Wearable technologies – in focus
Affected industries: Labor-intensive industries like manufacturing
Affected supply chain segments: Warehousing
Empowering essential workers with technology
In warehousing and production operations, many tasks include heavy lifting. To support warehouse workers, digitally supported physical technology can facilitate labor-intensive tasks and reduce physical stress on humans. This can be done by providing information via wearable technology or by applying technology that physically supports workers in executing their tasks.
Related developments
Human exoskeletons
DB Schenker and Hermes conducted first pilot projects for equipping warehouse workers with exoskeletons.
Tech companies set their sights on the future
Smart PPE
Smart personal protective equipment (PPE) garments can collect information about workplace ergonomics and productivity and derive recommendations to improve workplace safety.
Facets of this trend
- Exoskeletons
- Augmented reality gear
- Wearable sensors
Getting ahead of the trend
With regards to the labor shortage, wearable technology is a good way to make physically exhausting tasks easier for workers. Businesses should consider including wearable technologies into their working environment to attract new workers.
Discover more
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Digital transformation
A closer look at cutting-edge developments in supply chain technology
Authors
Holger Clasing
Vice President and Head of Strategy Practice
4flow consulting
Wendelin Gross
Head of
4flow research
Gero Holzheid
Supply Chain Scientist
4flow research
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