Shippers are increasingly vocal about their need for expanded visibility that goes beyond the realms of transportation, specifically addressing challenges in critical areas like inventory management. This shift in focus comes as the supply chain landscape undergoes significant transformations, with companies recognizing the importance of holistic visibility to navigate complexities effectively.

Changing Dynamics in Supply Chain Challenges:

The evolving dynamics of supply chain challenges, especially in inventory management, have prompted shippers to reevaluate their visibility requirements. Mathew Elenjickal, CEO of FourKites, emphasized the noteworthy shift in the pain points of the supply chain. He highlighted that the challenge has moved beyond transportation, indicating that “there were a lot of inventory build-ups at different parts of the supply chain.

Tech Gaps Exposed During COVID-19:

The COVID-19 pandemic exposed vulnerabilities for companies that lacked the right technological infrastructure for remote cargo management. Elenjickal acknowledged the difficulties some companies faced during the pandemic due to the absence of adequate technology. While transportation visibility remains crucial, the industry recognizes the need to leverage this visibility to positively impact other facets of the supply chain.

Rising Demand for Holistic Visibility Solutions:

In response to the escalating demand for comprehensive visibility, there is a surge in interest in complementary applications. Elenjickal announced the release of the FourKites Inbound Visibility Solution, a strategic tool designed to track shipments from the pre-tender stage, offering actionable data throughout the order lifecycle. This move aligns with the industry’s commitment to addressing the evolving needs of supply chain management.

Conflicting Signals in Technology Adoption:

Despite the evident need for enhanced visibility solutions, there are conflicting signals regarding the adoption of new supply chain technology. Economic pressures are driving a desire for quick returns on investment, creating a cautious approach among shippers. Elenjickal acknowledged this reality, noting that while there is interest in investing for increased resilience, companies are being “very selective” in choosing products that align with their specific needs.

Navigating Economic Landscape with Caution:

While there is a growing interest in investing to enhance resilience, companies remain cautious as they navigate the intricate economic landscape. The delicate balance between the urgency for resilient solutions and the practical considerations of return on investment shapes the decision-making process for shippers.

Strategic Vision for Enhanced Supply Chain Resilience:

Elenjickal emphasized that the pressures faced by the supply chain have prompted a collective desire to inject investment into technology that fosters resilience. The industry is witnessing a strategic vision where shippers recognize the significance of technology in creating robust and adaptable supply chains.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, the call for expanded visibility beyond transportation in changing supply chains reflects a broader industry acknowledgment of evolving challenges. Shippers are not only seeking solutions for current pain points but are strategically investing in technology that can fortify their supply chains against future uncertainties. As the industry witnesses the release of innovative solutions like the FourKites Inbound Visibility Solution, the journey toward comprehensive supply chain visibility takes a significant step forward.