Logistics 2025 Annual Review & Outlook
Executive Commentary
Dunavant
Chrissy Geibel
COO www . dunavant . com Visibility and predictability in the supply chain are increasingly critical as we approach 2025 , driven by rapid technological advances , evolving consumer
eezyimport Uri Appelbaum expectations and various industry disruptions . True visibility enables realtime monitoring of goods at every leg of the journey , leading to more accurate predictability . While we cannot predict every variable , we can leverage data to anticipate disruptions and develop proactive solutions .
Many companies rely on historical data for visibility and predictability , yet achieving real-time visibility and predictability across the supply chain remains challenging . Each organization captures data relevant to its needs , but is the data real time ? Is it pertinent to
CEO www . eezyimport . com
While automation has revolutionized some logistics processes , other fields still require human intervention .
Over the last few years , automation has transformed some areas in the supply chain industry such as inventory management , order processing , transportation management and customs clearance . These transformations can be seen in advanced warehouse management systems and automated storage and retrieval systems , which enable businesses to optimize stock levels and minimize human errors . Integration of e-commerce platforms with warehouse operations has allowed picking , packing and preparing of orders to become fully automated , thus speeding up fulfillment and minimizing human errors .
In transportation management , algorithms optimize routes , track fleets and plan loads . These systems make transportation more efficient by choosing the best paths and reducing costs . Autonomous vehicles and drones are also emerging technologies that may further automate deliveries in the future . Automation has also transformed customs compliance , allowing importers to file documents , calculate duties and manage regulations through digital platforms , which helps reduce errors and saves time . And yet , some areas cannot become truly automated . While AI offers remarkable benefits and possibilities , it ’ s evident that transforming how people work is a gradual process , largely due to established checks and procedures that have become standard practice .
Customer service is an area that cannot be fully automated . While chatbots handle basic queries , complex issues such as delivery problems , strikes or natural disasters require human interaction for effective resolution .
Similarly , relationship management with suppliers and clients relies on human skills . Negotiating , managing expectations and resolving disputes are tasks that automation cannot replace .
While automation has enhanced efficiency in logistics — particularly in inventory , order processing and transportation — human oversight remains essential for other areas in the industry . We can use automated tools to help human oversight in customer service , relationship management and navigating unpredictable situations , but never to a full extent .
“ Each organization captures data relevant to its needs , but is the data real time ? Is it pertinent to others ? For that matter , is it even shared ?”
Chrissy Geibel
“ While AI offers remarkable benefits and possibilities , it ’ s evident that transforming how people work is a gradual process , largely due to established checks and procedures that have become standard practice .”
Uri Appelbaum
“ We are already seeing early adopters experimenting , and having success , with quantum computing to plug in and solve some of the most complex algorithms within the supply chain .”
James Brennan others ? For that matter , is it even shared ? This integration of technology in the supply chain has improved connectivity while also introducing complexity . As we increase visibility — leg to leg or partner to partner — the differentiator lies in interpreting true , real-time data and making it meaningful and actionable for all stakeholders . It ’ s no longer a simple connection , but a complex integration .
As technology progresses , visibility and predictability in logistics will continue to improve . However , regardless of the advances , our industry will always be a service-driven industry with human experience , connection and commitment as key value propositions .
Endava
James Brennan
Global Industry Lead , Supply Chain & Manufacturing www . endava . com
Over the past 12 to 24 months , the evolution of artificial intelligence and generative AI has been astonishing . Even as an end-user , it ’ s amazing to reflect on the difference in the market from the original ChatGPT to where we now have access to countless open-source applications for use-cases such as image / video generating models , co-pilot capabilities for development , plug-ins for Microsoft office , iPhone messenger , etc . giving us easy access to increase our daily productivity . But there ’ s something on the horizon that will take AI in the supply chain to a whole new level : quantum computing . Within the next three to five years , quantum will shift from experimental to practical , completely redefining what ’ s possible with AI . We don ’ t need to wait for the medium term however , as we are already seeing early adopters experimenting , and having success , with quantum computing to plug in and solve some of the most complex algorithms within the supply chain .
Machine vision is another area where we ’ re seeing significant advancements . The ability of machines to interpret visual data from camera feeds , sensors and internet of things
94 Journal of Commerce | January 6 , 2025 www . joc . com