Supply chain and manufacturing
Learn how technology can optimize your supply chain, logistics and manufacturing processes. Explore how the internet of things, AI and blockchain are bringing new efficiencies and how ERP software can help with supply chain operations and improve product delivery. Here you'll also find overviews on important supply chain management concepts.
Top Stories
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Tip
08 Dec 2023
WMS vs. IMS: Learn the differences between the two systems
A WMS streamlines warehouse operations, while an IMS focuses solely on inventory management. Discover how these systems can work together to streamline warehouse processes. Continue Reading
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Feature
07 Dec 2023
What role do ERP systems play in supply chain management?
ERP is involved in every major step in manufacturing products and delivering the right ones to consumers. Here's an overview of its key SCM modules and features. Continue Reading
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Tip
04 Dec 2023
WMS vs. WCS vs. WES: Learn the differences
Companies often implement a WMS, then potentially add a WCS or a WES later. Learn more about WMS, WCS and WES as well as the differences between the three systems. Continue Reading
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News
30 Nov 2023
Accenture, SAP partner on supply chain visibility
A partnership between Accenture and SAP builds supply chain capabilities on SAP IBP that enables organizations to identify and respond to changes in supply, demand and inventory. Continue Reading
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News
29 Nov 2023
White House unveils plan to build supply chain resilience
New Biden administration actions for supply chains include a cross-governmental council, use of the Defense Production Act for essential medicines, and data sharing and analytics. Continue Reading
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Feature
20 Nov 2023
Digital tech tops supply chain trends list for 2024
Supply chain professionals want more technologies such as AI for visibility and traceability in 2024; however, sustainability and reshoring are long-term strategies. Continue Reading
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Tip
17 Nov 2023
WMS vs. OMS: Learn the differences between the two systems
While WMS streamlines warehouse processes, OMS can help improve order management and customer data tracking. Discover more about the differences between WMS and OMS. Continue Reading
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Tip
06 Nov 2023
7 tips for implementing a transportation management system
Implementing a transportation management system can be a challenging process, so supply chain leaders should follow some best practices to ensure success. Learn more. Continue Reading
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Tip
03 Nov 2023
MES vs. ERP: What are the differences?
MES software focuses on manufacturing processes, while an ERP system focuses on company operations. Learn more about the differences between MES vs. ERP. Continue Reading
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Tip
01 Nov 2023
7 advantages, disadvantages of using a TMS
Using a TMS can help companies in various ways, but it can also bring disadvantages. Learn more about the pros and cons of using a transportation management system. Continue Reading
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Tip
27 Oct 2023
3 benefits of integrating WMS and TMS software
The right software can help many logistics companies streamline operations, improve shipment visibility and optimize processes. Discover how a WMS-TMS integration can help. Continue Reading
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News
25 Oct 2023
SAP broadens CX offerings with new AI tools for Joule
The ERP software vendor brings AI-based tools to strengthen identity and data security as well as end-to-end personalization to highlight its customer experience offerings. Continue Reading
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Tip
16 Oct 2023
6 advantages and disadvantages of value chain analysis
Company leaders seeking to optimize efficiency and reduce costs should learn the advantages and disadvantages of value chain analysis to determine if it's the right choice. Continue Reading
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Tip
12 Oct 2023
Value chain vs. value stream: What are the differences?
Understanding value chains vs. value streams can be difficult, but both approaches can help companies improve their operations and customer service. Learn more. Continue Reading
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Tip
12 Oct 2023
PLM vs. ALM: Compare the differences
Company leaders must be aware of the critical distinctions between PLM and ALM. Learn each system's features and how they can potentially work together. Continue Reading
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Tip
29 Sep 2023
PLM and PDM software: Learn the differences
PLM and PDM software may seem similar, but they fulfill different needs for manufacturers. Learn the differences and which is more useful for your company. Continue Reading
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Tip
25 Sep 2023
PLM vs. PIM: What are the differences?
Users primarily work with PLM data during product development, while users work with the data from a PIM system when marketing the final product. Learn more about PLM vs. PIM. Continue Reading
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Tip
25 Sep 2023
Value chain vs. supply chain: What are the differences?
Although value chains and supply chains can be interchangeable, they are separate approaches to producing goods. Learn more about value chain vs. supply chain. Continue Reading
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News
19 Sep 2023
Industrial operations needs open technology ecosystem
To fully realize the productivity promises of Industry 4.0, manufacturers need to take an open ecosystem approach that integrates proprietary OT systems with IT systems. Continue Reading
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News
15 Sep 2023
Industry 4.0 manufacturing success depends on enabling people
Industry 4.0 success requires giving frontline workers the digital tools they need to solve problems and open, rather than closed, systems to drive collaboration. Continue Reading
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Feature
14 Sep 2023
Are NFTs bad for the environment? Carbon, energy and more
Like blockchain, NFTs have a negative reputation when it comes to the environment. Learn why and whether that negative impact has changed in the last few years. Continue Reading
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News
31 Aug 2023
IFS snaps up industrial AI provider Falkonry
On the heels of buying Poka, IFS has acquired industrial AI software company Falkonry to help manufacturers detect and resolve anomalies in processes. Continue Reading
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Tip
25 Aug 2023
6 benefits of field service management software
6 benefits of field service management software Continue Reading
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Feature
24 Aug 2023
What to know about ESG data across ERP, enterprise systems
No single enterprise systems holds the key to ESG reporting. Instead, data is spread across ERP and other software systems. Here's what IT and sustainability leaders should know. Continue Reading
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Feature
18 Aug 2023
Sustainability partnership: How CSOs and CIOs can team up
Learn how sustainability leaders and IT leaders can partner for ESG success by collaborating on tech selection, prioritizing the right data and allowing for tension. Continue Reading
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Feature
17 Aug 2023
Reshoring manufacturing interest grows but is slow going
Reshoring manufacturing to the U.S. is on the rise, driven by supply chain risks, sustainability demands, and policy incentives. But the pace and extent of any shift is uncertain. Continue Reading
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Guest Post
02 Aug 2023
5 ways tech leaders can power environmental sustainability
As organizations prioritize environmental sustainability, technology leaders have the opportunity to help support success. Here are five steps that help. Continue Reading
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Tip
02 Aug 2023
MRP vs. MPS: What are the differences?
Learn about MRP vs. MPS, including how each focuses on different aspects of the manufacturing process but can help manufacturers in a variety of ways. Continue Reading
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Tip
02 Aug 2023
9 benefits of MRP software
MRP and MRP II software can offer multiple benefits to manufacturers. Learn how manufacturing companies can use them to potentially improve key production processes. Continue Reading
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Feature
26 Jul 2023
10 tips for a successful sustainability journey
Sustainability isn't a one-and-done endeavor but rather a journey your organization will need to prioritize going forward. Here's how to create success. Continue Reading
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Feature
20 Jul 2023
2 sustainable packaging benefits and 1 challenge to know
Learn how using sustainable packaging can benefit companies in various ways, including to improve brand image, as well as challenges of which supply chain leaders should be aware. Continue Reading
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News
10 Jul 2023
Industrial metaverse blends real, virtual work environment
In this Q&A, Siemens USA's Barbara Humpton discusses the industrial metaverse and the technologies driving the potential future of manufacturing forward. Continue Reading
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Feature
29 Jun 2023
Industrial metaverse, AI set to transform manufacturing
Manufacturing is moving into the industrial metaverse where companies create and run virtual models of physical facilities, incorporating digital twins, AR, IoT and cloud computing. Continue Reading
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Podcast
29 Jun 2023
Cloud CAD software helps usher in digital manufacturing era
SolidWorks and Onshape co-founder Jon Hirschtick, now chief evangelist at PTC, shares his cloud-centered vision of the future of product design technology. Continue Reading
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News
21 Jun 2023
Kinaxis provides tool for sustainable supply chain
Kinaxis debuted new applications designed to improve supply chain management, including sustainability reporting, planning and execution integration, and AI for demand sensing. Continue Reading
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Tip
06 Jun 2023
ERP vs. BPM: Which is best for your company?
Some companies may need BPM software to supplement their existing ERP system. Learn more about ERP vs. BPM and how these tools can work together to improve efficiency. Continue Reading
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Feature
01 Jun 2023
Arista ditches spreadsheets, email for SAP IBP
As rapid growth outstripped Arista Networks' spreadsheet-based supply chain processes, the company implemented a digital supply chain with SAP Integrated Business Planning. Continue Reading
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Conference Coverage
01 Jun 2023
SAP Sapphire 2023 news, trends and analysis
The conference showed SAP is responding to the demand for generative AI and highlighted SAP cloud products, services and testimonials from companies that have moved to the cloud. Continue Reading
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Feature
30 May 2023
8 ideas for increasing warehouse sustainability
Warehouses can make up a major part of a company's carbon emissions. Learn some ideas for how warehouse owners and operators can improve sustainability. Continue Reading
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Tip
30 May 2023
MRP vs. MRP II: Learn the differences
MRP II software gives companies much greater control over their scheduling and production processes than MRP software. Learn more about MRP vs. MRP II. Continue Reading
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Tip
22 May 2023
ERP and APS: What are the differences?
Manufacturing companies may find their ERP software isn't fulfilling their needs. Learn how APS can help with challenges like capacity planning and what-if scenarios. Continue Reading
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Feature
22 May 2023
ChatGPT in the current manufacturing landscape
Industry leaders in manufacturing must understand the challenges posed by ChatGPT and other generative AI technologies to overcome them and reap AI's benefits. Continue Reading
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Tip
17 May 2023
Use cases show the combined potential of AI and blockchain
AI and blockchain are both hot topics in IT, yet used for different purposes. However, enterprises across various sectors can now combine both technologies to their advantage. Continue Reading
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Feature
28 Apr 2023
3D printing has a complex relationship with sustainability
3D printing promises some sustainability benefits, including creating lighter parts and shorter supply chains, but the overall question of its environmental value is complex. Continue Reading
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Tip
27 Apr 2023
7 3PL KPIs that can help you evaluate success
Supply chain leaders should look at some particular KPIs to determine whether their company's 3PL provider is meeting their needs. Learn the most helpful KPIs. Continue Reading
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News
26 Apr 2023
Advanced technologies fuel supply chain 'magic conveyor belt'
In this Q&A, MIT's Yossi Sheffi discusses the complexities of modern supply chains and how AI, automation and robotics will affect the future of supply chain employment. Continue Reading
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Tip
21 Apr 2023
ERP and SCM: Understand the differences
Some companies' supply chain management needs may not be fulfilled by their ERP software, so they may require SCM software. Learn more about ERP and SCM software. Continue Reading
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Feature
19 Apr 2023
Augmented reality vs. virtual reality vs. mixed reality
Learn about AR vs. VR vs. MR as well as how companies in various industries are using these extended reality technologies to potentially improve their operations. Continue Reading
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Feature
10 Apr 2023
Sustainability and ESG glossary: 52 terms to know
Sustainable strategies require basic understanding of the fundamentals. Business leaders and IT teams can benefit from this list of essential sustainability terms and ESG concepts. Continue Reading
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Podcast
30 Mar 2023
Digital twins of buildings can help decarbonize environment
John Turner and Anil Sawhney of the Digital Twin Consortium explain how deploying a digital twin of a building could significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Continue Reading
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Answer
29 Mar 2023
Learn the differences between 3PL and 4PL
A 3PL logistics provider fulfills some companies' needs, while others require a 4PL's more extensive services. Learn the difference between 3PL and 4PL. Continue Reading
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Tip
29 Mar 2023
3PL brokerage vs. freight brokerage: Which fits your needs?
A 3PL brokerage and a freight brokerage offer different services, so supply chain leaders should learn the differences between the two to decide which fits their company's needs. Continue Reading
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Feature
16 Mar 2023
Learn the key role technology plays in sustainability
With ESG and environmental sustainability becoming more important for enterprise success, IT will need to understand its key role. Here's the overview. Continue Reading
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Opinion
16 Mar 2023
Introducing our essential sustainability and ESG resource hub
CIOs, supply chain pros and other stakeholders need information that demystifies sustainability strategies and tech. The new TechTarget site answers those needs. Continue Reading
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Tip
14 Mar 2023
Additive manufacturing: Learn about powder bed fusion
Powder bed fusion may cost less than other additive manufacturing approaches, but it can be time-consuming. Learn whether powder bed fusion is right for your manufacturing needs. Continue Reading
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Feature
27 Feb 2023
ERP vs. WMS: Which one is right for you?
If nuanced warehouse efficiency is necessary to fulfill customer expectations, an ERP system may not be enough. Here's what to consider when it comes to ERP vs. WMS. Continue Reading
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Tip
24 Feb 2023
Additive manufacturing: Learn about sheet lamination
Sheet lamination, which is one type of additive manufacturing, is a comparatively cheap and quick way to prototype products. Learn more about sheet lamination. Continue Reading
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News
10 Feb 2023
QAD adds Redzone connected worker platform
ERP vendor QAD acquires vendor Redzone, providing a foothold in the market for connected worker software that helps manufacturers improve productivity. Continue Reading
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News
26 Jan 2023
Oracle adds logistics features to supply chain platform
New functionality in Oracle Supply Chain Management helps companies more accurately track shipments and understand the provenance of product components. Continue Reading
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Tip
09 Jan 2023
Learn the 7 types of additive manufacturing
Additive manufacturing is a process in which technology creates 3D shapes by layering materials. Learn how additive manufacturing can support a company's supply chain strategy. Continue Reading
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News
22 Dec 2022
Economics could curtail sustainability initiatives in 2023
As companies adopt measures to improve sustainability goals, enterprise applications can play a key role. But these efforts must also make economic sense to be successful. Continue Reading
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Tip
21 Dec 2022
Learn difference between additive, subtractive manufacturing
Additive and subtractive manufacturing are two different approaches that are often combined by manufacturers. Learn the difference between the two methods. Continue Reading
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Feature
19 Dec 2022
A digital transformation approach to supply chain resilience
An efficient supply chain starts with proactive preparation and the right technology. Learn more about the potential of digital transformation for supply chain resilience. Continue Reading
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Feature
15 Dec 2022
IT influences shift to net positive enterprise
In this Q&A, business sustainability expert Andrew Winston discusses why companies need to become net positive by contributing more than they take. Continue Reading
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News
08 Dec 2022
Hyperscalers tackle supply chain resilience
Microsoft and AWS unveiled supply chain management platforms that are intended to enable businesses to build capabilities in their clouds and tackle supply chain problems. Continue Reading
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News
30 Nov 2022
AWS joins Microsoft in providing supply chain visibility
AWS found that the core reason companies find supply chains challenging to manage is the lack of visibility across complicated networks. Continue Reading
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Podcast
29 Nov 2022
Reimagining the factory floor as a metaverse workplace
Plex CTO Jerry Foster explains how virtual reality technology and high-speed connectivity could allow factory line workers to do their jobs remotely from home as part of the metaverse. Continue Reading
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News
18 Nov 2022
Microsoft eyes new market with supply chain platform
Microsoft used to run its supply chain operations on Excel spreadsheets; now it's providing the building blocks for companies to collect data from various applications. Continue Reading
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Feature
17 Nov 2022
RFID in supply chain: 6 examples in use today
RFID continues to have applicability for supply chain management. Here are six ways organizations can use it to support inventory management and logistics. Continue Reading
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Tip
07 Nov 2022
Active vs. passive RFID tags: Which to choose
There are benefits and challenges to both active and passive RFID tags. An organization should learn what they are and what they do before implementation. Continue Reading
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Feature
31 Oct 2022
Why RFID for supply chain management is still relevant
RFID is comparatively older technology but can still be relevant for supply chain management. Learn some potential logistics uses for RFID and reasons for its increased adoption. Continue Reading
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News
26 Oct 2022
Business sustainability projects require savvy data analysis
In this Q&A, Stephen Keys of IFS discusses why sustainability projects for organizations are complex undertakings, but the data needed to drive projects already exists. Continue Reading
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Feature
25 Oct 2022
New ways of upcycling CO2, decarbonizing steel and cement
The industrial sector has a massive carbon footprint. That's why some companies are working to clean up steel and cement and find new uses for carbon. Continue Reading
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Feature
30 Sep 2022
Fair Repair Act could help spur circular economy model
New regulations including the Fair Repair Act coupled with factors like consumer demand for sustainability are motivating manufacturers to consider a circular economy model. Continue Reading
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Tip
29 Sep 2022
RFID vs. IoT: What are the differences?
Users often combine RFID and IoT, but the two technologies are different in some important ways. Learn more about RFID vs. IoT and the uses for each in the supply chain. Continue Reading
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Tip
23 Sep 2022
7 benefits of RFID in supply chain management and logistics
RFID can help companies in their supply chain operations by assisting with product tracking and potentially improving product availability. Learn some of RFID's other benefits. Continue Reading
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Tip
31 Aug 2022
RFID vs. barcodes in supply chain: Which should you choose?
Both RFID and barcodes are valuable in the supply chain, but each is more useful for particular scenarios. Learn what to consider when deciding between RFID vs. barcodes. Continue Reading
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News
22 Aug 2022
Kinaxis RapidResponse gets multiparty orchestration with MPO
Supply chain planning and order execution will integrate as Kinaxis acquires MPO, which might help customers get real-time visibility and deal with supply chain disruptions. Continue Reading
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News
16 Aug 2022
CHIPS Act should simplify semiconductor supply chains
The CHIPS Act is a good first step in reviving U.S. semiconductor production, but experts caution that benefits won't be realized soon, due to issues like complex supply chains. Continue Reading
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Tip
08 Aug 2022
RFID vs. NFC: Learn the pros and cons of each
While NFC is a subset of RFID technology, the two have some key differences, including cost and security. Learn more about RFID vs. NFC and which works best for your organization. Continue Reading
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Feature
04 Aug 2022
The future of the food industry: Food tech explained
Food tech shows how technology can improve the way the world grows, produces, distributes and supplies food by using technology such as AI and automation. Continue Reading
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Tip
27 Jul 2022
5 ways to use social media in supply chain management
Amid a supply chain crisis, customers often turn to social media to voice frustration. Organizations need honesty, empathy and informative content to help disgruntled customers. Continue Reading
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Podcast
26 Jul 2022
Digital freight broker cuts food waste, carbon footprints
Hwy Haul CEO Syed Aman explains how connecting shippers with truckers online and using data science to optimize loads and routes makes the produce supply chain more sustainable. Continue Reading
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Tip
15 Jul 2022
The role of customer service in the supply chain
Amid a supply chain crisis, delays can cause customer satisfaction to plummet. Organizations must use transparency, personalization and empathy to enhance customer service efforts. Continue Reading
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News
08 Jul 2022
Growing number of risks tests supply chain continuity
In this Q&A, supply chain expert Zachary Collier looks at some ways supply chains are threatened today and how companies need to avoid a single point of failure in supply chains. Continue Reading
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Podcast
30 Jun 2022
Digital Twin Consortium strives to organize a chaotic market
Digital Twin Consortium CTO Dan Isaacs explains the organization's work and assesses the progress made in digital twin technology, standards and best practices. Continue Reading
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Feature
27 Jun 2022
Supply chain technology critical for dealing with issues
As supply chains face new and unprecedented pressures on a number of fronts, companies look to emerging technologies to automate tasks, get intelligence and become more resilient. Continue Reading
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News
13 Jun 2022
Alternative data, multimodal AI tech produce new insights
AI fuels the delivery of new sources of investment and corporate information, such as satellite imagery, contact center audio logs, employee sentiment and social media data. Continue Reading
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Answer
09 Jun 2022
What's the difference between SCM and CRM?
CRM platforms track customer interactions, whereas SCM platforms track materials and product shipments. Tech buyers should know how these platforms differ before making a purchase. Continue Reading
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Feature
09 Jun 2022
How supply chain issues affect data storage and what IT can do
Supply chain issues challenge IT teams and data storage administrators. It's important to be as proactive as possible when managing storage in an era of such uncertainty. Continue Reading
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Feature
13 May 2022
How COVID-19 has affected just-in-time supply chains
Industry leaders long held up the just-in-time supply chain model as ideal, but the COVID-19 pandemic has revealed its weaknesses. Learn whether just-in-time is over for good. Continue Reading
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Feature
09 May 2022
How MSPs can help in building resilience in supply chains
Channel partners have stepped in to try to address supply chain disruptions, but not all vendors feel MSPs, consultants and other partners have the solutions manufacturers need. Continue Reading
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News
06 May 2022
Business conditions upend digital supply chain investments
A new PwC survey of supply chain leaders indicates that most companies are not yet seeing results from investments in advanced supply chain technologies. Continue Reading
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News
29 Apr 2022
Kinaxis, TraceLink partner on supply chain planning
Supply chain planning and collaboration come together in a new integration of Kinaxis RapidResponse and TraceLink's healthcare and pharmaceutical industry supply chain network. Continue Reading
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Feature
28 Apr 2022
5 best practices for creating a data-driven supply chain
Turning to data and analytics to manage supply chain disruption only helps if leaders use good practices for extracting insights. Here are five that can help. Continue Reading
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News
30 Mar 2022
Unilever pursues supply chain sustainability with blockchain
Unilever deploys blockchain-enabled GreenToken by SAP to help ensure the palm oil used in its products comes from responsible sources and doesn't contribute to rainforest loss. Continue Reading
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News
18 Mar 2022
Ukraine war, sanctions will extend supply chain disruption
Supply chains have been hit hard in the past two years, and the challenges do not get easier with the Ukraine war, which will affect industries for years to come. Continue Reading
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Feature
18 Mar 2022
Does concurrent planning in the supply chain work?
Does concurrent planning in the supply chain work to address disruption? Some experts say the promise doesn't yet match reality during major crises. Continue Reading
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News
15 Mar 2022
Ongoing disruptions force supply chain strategies to evolve
In this Q&A, IDC's Simon Ellis explains why companies need to implement more resilient supply chains in an environment of greater constraint caused by continual disruption. Continue Reading
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Feature
14 Mar 2022
VC investment fuels supply chain innovation
Venture capital funds are now flowing into startups that are working on technologies and platforms to tackle longstanding supply chain issues. Continue Reading
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Podcast
28 Feb 2022
Is ERP good for sustainability -- or part of the problem?
ERP vendors tout new tools for improving environmental sustainability. TechTarget editors discuss these and other ways IT both helps and hurts the environment. Continue Reading
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Feature
04 Feb 2022
ERP critical to achieving sustainability goals in 2022
Sustainability is a major priority for businesses in 2022, driven by internal goals, customer demand and regulations. ERP systems are at the center of sustainability projects. Continue Reading