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multi-echelon inventory optimization
July 7, 2026
Why Data Sharing Is the Missing Link in AI-Powered Supply Chains
Artificial intelligence (AI) is rapidly reshaping supply chain operations. From improving demand forecasting and inventory management to increasing operational efficiency, organizations across industries are investing heavily in AI to gain a competitive edge. Yet many companies overlook a critical requirement for AI success: access to trusted, high-quality data shared across the supply chain ecosystem. Supply chains have always relied on collaboration among suppliers, manufacturers, distributors, and retailers. In the AI era, that collaboration must become more intelligent. Organizations need timely, secure data exchange, both upstream and downstream, to provide AI systems with the information required to generate accurate insights and recommendations. When suppliers share real-time information about inventory levels, delivery schedules, and raw material quality, manufacturers can improve planning, reduce risk, and respond more quickly to disruptions. Likewise, when retailers share data about customer demand, inventory positions, and satisfaction levels, manufacturers can better align production and distribution with actual market needs. The result is a leaner, more agile, and more profitable supply chain. Despite these benefits, many organizations are still hesitant to share data. Concerns about security, intellectual property protection, competitive exposure, and integration complexity continue to create barriers. However, these challenges can be addressed through strong data governance, clear…
May 1, 2020
This Week at Supply Chain Now: April 27th – May 1st
BIG THINGS happening here at Supply Chain Now! Have you listened to all the episodes from this week? If not, no worries! Check them all out here: We started out the week wrapping up our last episode from MODEX 2020 with supply chain visionary Diego Pantoja-Navaja with Oracle. Supply Chain Now · “Supply Chain Visionary: Diego Pantoja-Navajas with Oracle” On Tuesday, Scott and Greg were joined by Enrique Alvarez and Adrian Purtill with Vector Global Logistics as they continued the Logistics with Purpose series with special guest Patrick Plonski with Books for Africa. Supply Chain Now · “Logistics with Purpose: Patrick Plonski, PhD with Books for Africa” Then we published the new and improved Supply Chain Buzz, with Scott and Greg sharing and discussing the latest news and events in Supply Chain and beyond. Supply Chain Now · “The Supply Chain Buzz: Week of April 27th” Scott and Greg were joined by Bobby Holland with U.S. Bank and Lee Klaskow with Bloomberg Intelligence on Thursday as they discussed the key takeaways from the Q1 2020 U.S. Bank Freight Payment Index. Supply Chain Now · “Analysis of Q1 2020 U.S. Bank Freight Payment…