Machine to Machine Communication

In this episode of the Rethinking Supply Chain podcast, John and Diana discuss the Internet of Things (IoT) and how machines are becoming more and more involved in the supply chain from start to finish. Stress that is placed on the supply chain due to external events has highlighted the need to streamline the supply chain with machines that make perfect decisions. Using the example of Mcdonald’s Restaurant food chain, John explains how being able to receive orders ahead of time remotely ensures seamless product delivery. John goes on to explain what machine to machine interaction looks like in the supply chain. Using the example of a large retailer, we learn the intricacies of operations and where machines can step in to improve efficiency. Humans won’t become obsolete, but as John explains, there are areas where machines make more sense. He explains how classic principles that have powered supply chains need to be adapted and implemented to increase efficiency, and how many distribution chains have yet to do so.