AI and the Future of Supply Chains: Moving from Prediction to Adaptation

AI and the Future of Supply Chains: Moving from Prediction to Adaptation

By Alan Win
Publication Date: 2025-11-18 23:39:00

Supply chains are no longer just about transporting goods from A to B efficiently. Today they are literally living systems that respond to global shocks, fluctuating demand and unexpected disruptions. If the last few years have taught us anything, it’s that predictability is a luxury, not a given. And increasingly, companies are turning to artificial intelligence (AI) and automation not just to survive, but to adapt and even thrive.

From static forecasting to AI-supported demand planning

Take the demand forecast. In the past, planners relied heavily on historical sales and static models. These methods worked well when markets were stable, but as recent events have shown, stability is short-lived. Enter AI. Machine learning algorithms can now analyze complex data, from supplier performance to social sentiment, and identify potential problems before they become crises. But here’s the catch: AI isn’t magic. It’s a tool, and like any tool, it’s only as good as the data and context that guides it…