Author: James Maday

The Covid pandemic upset global logistics in a fascinating, provocative way. Logistics and supply chain executives have found that, beginning with the disarray of Covid, customers needed more and more data on where their shipments were, along with real-time information on deliveries so they could plan more efficiently, reported Bloomberg.

 

Global C-suite management took note, leading to innovation in logistics, where – from inventory management to manufacturing to transport to a grocery store shelf  – everything is automated and tracked. It is not a craze – private financiers and venture capitalists have been investing $9 billion a quarter into logistics technology companies since late 2020. 

The future of logistics is in software, artificial intelligence and automation. More than 60 innovative, high tech logistics firms have been founded in the past 18 months. This is real. Make certain your logistics are in synch with the 21st century.

When the Cleveland Browns heard early weather warnings last fall about a potential blizzard in Buffalo before their upcoming game with the Bills, their logistics team rushed into action. The NFL then canceled the Buffalo venue, moving the contest to Ford Field in downtown Detroit, according to a report in Crain’s Cleveland Business. Browns management immediately searched for and booked a hotel for team members, coaching, and other staff. The Browns usually bus to Detroit and Pittsburgh, and fly by charter to other NFL cities. Once the hotel was set, Browns logistics management had to find and schedule seven buses; as well as find and schedule equipment trucks.

They also needed pre- and post-transportation to Ford Field from their hotel, supported by police escorts. All went smoothly, except the Browns lost the game. The lesson for logistics professionals? Plan well in advance, but always be ready for the worst contingencies and be prepared to change quickly.