William F. Aldridge, President, Allport Cargo Services

https://allportcs.com
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William F. Aldridge, President, Allport Cargo Services

As we attempt to predict the predictably unpredictable, we learn again and again that there are no boundaries to the spectrum of challenges that we confront. But new technology tools such as AI have the potential to help us to better manage that spectrum.

In various ways, many of us are doing the same things, albeit a bit quicker and more efficiently and effectively with better tools than before. However, the challenges we face today have dramatically higher stakes and demand the best and brightest to make good our promise to deliver on what we promise.

Information and accuracy of data collection about the supply chain have improved dramatically in the last few years. AI can now take advantage of these improvements. One of the key drivers of success in developing and using AI will be access to and organizing the best and brightest talent available from all disciplines. Investing in teaching this talent, so they can teach and shape the new tools we are now exploring will be what makes the difference going forward.

At the same time, we are also hearing now that many BCOs are deploying a D&D — de-couple and de-risk — strategy that I talked about in last years’ article. They say they are preparing for what they believe will be the need for real dynamic decision making to effectively compete, survive and be amongst the long-term winners.

Choices that we will all need to make to enable the BCO to know what, how and when to communicate and execute changes on the fly.