Analysts Explore Transformative Technology Trends at Gartner Supply Chain Symposium/Xpo
During Gartner Supply Chain Symposium/Xpo, taking place in Barcelona this week, Gartner experts presented key emerging supply chain technology trends that will support new business models, augment and automate decision making, and foster ecosystem collaboration.
AI-enabled vision systems are novel hyper-automation solutions that combine industrial 3D cameras, computer vision software, and advanced AI pattern recognition technologies. These solutions leverage high-resolution vision systems combined with AI’s advanced pattern recognition capabilities and machine learning (ML) to radically change how many processes previously dependent on manual human inputs are performed.
“Companies are looking beyond traditional solutions as pressures mount to continuously improve operational process performance,” said Carly West, Senior Director Analyst in the Gartner Supply Chain Practice. “AI-enabled vision systems will propagate quickly in warehouse operations as the value proposition is so evident; not only for inventory management, but also monitoring that can identify safety issues and ergonomic problems for workers in real time.”
Gartner expert Carly West presents at Gartner Supply Chain Symposium/Xpo in Barcelona.
For supply chain leaders who are considering the deployment of AI-enabled vision systems, Gartner has three recommendations:
1. In the near term, there will not be a singular vendor or solution that fits all possible use cases. However, the value proposition of these solutions can potentially justify experimenting with multiple alternatives at low risk and low cost.
2. Start with simple processes, like cycle counting or worker safety monitoring, that are tailor made for an AI-enabled vision system. Leverage lessons from early initiatives to help identify additional use cases in the future.
3. More mature companies that have good manual processes like labor management established should begin to assess more advanced solutions like process ergonomic monitoring.
