6 Skills for AI-Ready Supply Chain Professionals

Artificial intelligence (AI) is changing the way supply chains operate. By helping to automate the analysis of large data sets and making it easier to identify trends in data, AI frees up time for supply chain professionals to engage in value-added activities that only humans can carry out. For example, even the best technology is no substitute for the uniquely human relationship-building skills that support listening to stakeholders, communicating effectively with business partners, innovating and thinking strategically about how to approach challenges. Through its AI in supply chain research, APQC has found that there are at least six new skills that supply chain employees need to develop or enhance as the result of AI adoption. While some of these are technical skills, most are soft skills that help supply chain professionals to forge stronger relationships, work more effectively with partners and solve complex problems.