Data-Driven Decisions: Unlocking the Potential of Modern Supply Chains
Dec 22, 2023
auto_awesome
Fraser Robinson, Co-founder and CEO of Beacon, discusses how they redefine supply chain visibility, emphasizing the strategic value of data-driven decision-making. Collaboration and a 'single source of truth' enable efficient communication and decision-making. The importance of sustainability, particularly in managing Scope 3 emissions, is also explored. Fraser shares his vision for the future of supply chains - a blend of data, technology, and human insight driving automation, efficiency, and sustainability.
Utilizing a visibility solution like Beacon allows businesses to centralize and access their supply chain data, enabling a comprehensive understanding of their supply chain and empowering them to make informed decisions.
Beacon emphasizes the importance of a comprehensive visibility solution that extends beyond real-time tracking, providing insights into the entire journey of goods, improving collaboration, and serving as a strategic foundation for optimizing supply chain operations.
Deep dives
Ownership of Supply Chain Data
Taking ownership of supply chain data is crucial for shippers. By utilizing a visibility solution like Beacon, businesses can centralize and access their supply chain data irrespective of the carrier or supplier they work with. This enables them to have a comprehensive understanding of their supply chain, from order visibility and shipment tracking to historical data analytics. The ownership of data empowers businesses to identify issues, make informed decisions, and strategically improve their supply chain operations.
The Evolution of Visibility
Visibility in supply chain operations has evolved beyond just real-time tracking. While tracking and tracing shipments is vital, Beacon emphasizes the importance of a broader and more strategic approach to visibility. This includes extending visibility into order processes, communication within the supply chain, and historical data analysis. By adopting a comprehensive visibility solution, businesses gain insights into the entire journey of their goods, improve collaboration, and have a strategic foundation for optimizing their supply chain.
The Power of Data for Automation
Accumulating and analyzing supply chain data is essential for automation in the future. Beacon enables businesses to gather and centralize transportation data from various carriers and modes. This data serves as a foundation for generating valuable insights and making recommendations to optimize supply chain operations. With the right data, businesses can integrate automation into their processes, close performance gaps, and continuously improve efficiency.
Collaboration and Real-Time Visibility
Beacon recognizes that collaboration is a crucial aspect of supply chain management. The platform offers live boards where teams can access real-time tracking information, seamlessly collaborate, and replace email-based communication. By eliminating the need for multiple portals and email exchanges, Beacon streamlines communication and enhances workflow efficiency. This collaborative approach not only improves internal team communication but also fosters better communication with suppliers, carriers, and customers.
In the latest episode of the Digital Supply Chain podcast I had the pleasure of conversing with Fraser Robinson, the co-founder and CEO of Beacon. We delved deep into the revolutionary world of supply chain visibility and collaboration.
🔍 Visibility Beyond Track-and-Trace: Fraser elaborates on how Beacon is redefining supply chain visibility. It's not just about knowing where your shipment is; it's about understanding the entire journey of your goods, from order to delivery, and leveraging this data for strategic decision-making.
🔗 Collaboration is Key: We also explored the crucial role of collaboration in supply chains. Beacon's approach isn't just about providing real-time updates; it's about empowering teams with a 'single source of truth,' enabling efficient decision-making and streamlining communication across different stakeholders.
📊 Data-Driven Supply Chains: Fraser's insights into how data is the backbone of supply chain optimization were particularly striking. He emphasized the journey towards automation and how supply chain data can lead to actionable insights, driving efficiency and cost-effectiveness.
💡 Sustainability in Focus: We touched on the importance of sustainability, particularly how supply chain visibility aids in managing Scope 3 emissions - a critical aspect for businesses today.
🚀 Looking Ahead: Fraser shared his vision for the future of supply chains - a blend of data, technology, and human insight driving towards a more automated, efficient, and sustainable ecosystem.
🔗 Learn More: For more insights and resources from Beacon, visit their website at Beacon.com, and check out the video version of this episode at
Elevate your brand with the ‘Sustainable Supply Chain’ podcast, the voice of supply chain sustainability.
Last year, this podcast's episodes were downloaded over 113,000 times by senior supply chain executives around the world.
Become a sponsor. Lead the conversation.
Contact me for sponsorship opportunities and turn downloads into dialogues.
Podcast supporters I'd like to sincerely thank this podcast's generous supporters:
Lorcan Sheehan
Olivier Brusle
Alicia Farag
Kieran Ognev
And remember you too can Support the Podcast - it is really easy and hugely important as it will enable me to continue to create more excellent episodes like this one.
Podcast Sponsorship Opportunities: If you/your organisation is interested in sponsoring this podcast - I have several options available. Let's talk!
Finally If you have any comments/suggestions or questions for the podcast - feel free to just send me a direct message on LinkedIn, or send me a text message using this link.