I’m Paul Noble, Founder, and Chief Strategy Officer of Verusen, an innovator in supply chain data, inventory, and procurement technology. AI is helping manufacturers unlock the value in their data and optimize their businesses. In my column, I focus on the benefits AI brings to materials management, inventory optimization, and in delivering procurement intelligence. I have extensive experience in the industrial supply chain and distribution space, having spent over a decade with The Sherwin-Williams Company, where I specialized in supply chain and manufacturing as well as led its Eastern U.S. Industrial Distribution business unit.
Bridging The Industrial Talent And Technology Gap. Why AI In Supply Chains Is Stalling, And It’s Not The Technology.
According to McKinsey’s 2023 Global Manufacturing Pulse, while over 90 percent of industrial companies cite digital as “critical” to their future competitiveness, fewer than 30 percent say their workforce is prepared to support these efforts. Deloitte’s 2024 Industry 4.0 Readiness Study echoes the concern, showing that skills gaps, especially in data analytics, AI operations, and cross-functional supply chain fluency, are the top cited barrier to transformation. This skills shortage is particularly acute in areas like MRO inventory optimization, predictive stocking, and AI-based procurement, domains that require a unique blend of operational know-how, data interpretation, and change management.
The Future Of Asset-Intensive Supply Chains
The future of asset-intensive supply chains relies on the transformation AI will deliver for Enterprise Asset Management
AI’s Steady Maturation In Supply Chains
A five-year retrospective where AI has genuinely made a difference in supply chain management.
The Future Is Explainability – Why AI Must Earn Our Trust
AI doesn't need to be mysterious. With explainability agents, businesses can harness AI's power transparently, ethically, and effectively for real results.
AI: Your Strategic Weapon Against Tariff Uncertainty In Global Supply Chains
The global tariff landscape may be beyond your control, but your response to it isn't.