We've previously discussed how the Internet of Things (IoT) may impact the workplace and general business functions, including logistics. According to the Wall Street Journal, Cisco Systems Inc. is attempting to improve efficiency through a trial (IoT) program that could last as long as 90 days. Over the course of this period, the company's Malaysian plant will use electronic sensors to help the company observe important data and use it to save money.
In its most recent ranking, Gartner placed Cisco at number six of the top 25 global supply chain leaders. The company stated in a press release that manufacturing and logistics are some of the key areas for enterprises to utilize new tech solutions, including sensors and automation.
One of the advantages of a supply chain that incorporates the IoT could be faster responses to industry problems as detected through these different sources. In this release, Gartner Research Vice President Stan Aronow said that smarter supply management extends from these facilities to the business' customer base.
"This year, we heard from more companies extending visibility and insight beyond first-line customers and moving on to the end users of their products," he said. "Their supply chains are not just collecting data concerning the details of the sale, but also the patterns of usage and resulting sentiment of the end user."
Along with Bring Your Own Device (BYOD), the IoT is a trend poised to potentially disrupt standard business operations and challenge companies that manage an outdated mainframe modernization strategy. Managers of large supply chains should move away from traditional desktop-based emulation options and use a web application integration server to handle the new data load on all devices. Prepare for this now with a flexible solution that is customizable to the results you expect to witness.