Multinational companies face numerous challenges when implementing recent technologies across their global supply chains. As an executive looking to improve efficiency and increase visibility into your supply chain, you may have found it difficult to navigate the complexities of adopting new supportive technology. 

Read also: Global Supply Chains Are Getting Stronger, but Weaknesses Persist

 This article provides insight into driving successful tech integration by breaking down barriers to its implementation. 

Barriers to Overcome 

Here are key barriers to adoption that you and your associates will need to address and break down so you can operate more successfully on the global stage without fear of relinquishing market share to competitors. 

Infrastructure limitations 

As you explore the complex nature of the global supply chain, you may find that your primary barrier to technology adoption is infrastructure limitations. The name of the game is interoperability, which is instrumental in making sure that new technologies will work properly with your current systems. What’s more, you’ll be in a better position to scale up your system as your business grows. One sound approach is to select modular technologies to integrate with your infrastructure. 

Use renewable energy, such as solar power panels, to ensure you can keep functioning at peak capacity when problems occur with your local energy grid. 

Consider combining satellite data and cloud computing with Software as a Service and mobile technology to better connect your workforce. 

Advanced software also plays a role in breaking down barriers. It makes sense to invest in supply chain planning software, so you can work more effectively in getting raw materials and products from point A to point Z. 

Varying regulatory environments 

The regulatory requirements for providing products in the United States can be burdensome, especially when your employees don’t have much experience in this area. There is a lot of time and effort to adhere to various regulations. You also must factor in the costs of complying with so many rules. 

But if you are poised to sell in international markets, the regulations from different countries challenge your ability to uniformly implement technology. It will pay to have members of your staff who thoroughly understand the various regulations in multiple countries and regions. At the same time, consider advocating for better standardization in global regulations. 

Workforce training needs 

Many companies report about the problems associated with a shortage of knowledgeable talent capable of implementing technology to beef up their supply chain operations, as noted by a report based on a survey conducted by a global management consulting firm. Survey responders indicated they found it challenging to accelerate their supply chain digitalization or to deploy advanced planning systems. At the same time, workers may not be fully aware of the risks present in complicated supply chain networks. 

Workers and managers who came on board before you became significantly involved in supply chain activities may be resistant to changing their systems and the processes you need to move items through the global supply chain. Arrange for advanced training, such as by hiring consultants to come to your facilities. 

Begin at the top by obtaining buy-in from your management team. By developing and encouraging a culture of innovation under your roof, you can reduce resistance to change, transforming the attitude of your teams toward adopting new technologies. 

Participate More Effectively in the Global Supply Chain by Breaking Down Barriers to Adopting Technology 

The best way to ensure you can use your supply chain network as effectively as possible will depend on how successful your team is at adopting new technology. 

Aim to get buy-in from top management to set an example for employees. It’s also prudent to invest in employee training so they fully understand the benefits of implementing the latest software and technology, as well as the drawbacks that come from failure to adopt it. 

Author bio

Gary Brooks is the CMO of ketteQ. He has more than 25 years of experience leading marketing for top software companies. Brooks has been featured in major publications such as Forbes, VentureBeat, ZDNET, Equipment World, Nikkei, Manufacturing Business Technology, Supply & Demand Chain Executive, and Field Service News, among others. Brooks holds a BS from Northeastern University and an MS, Management from Lesley University. He also is the co-founder of the Brooks Family Foundation.