In today's rapidly evolving logistics and supply chain landscape, technology is driving unprecedented transformation at breakneck speed. The convergence of traditional logistics management with cutting-edge artificial intelligence and automation technologies is creating revolutionary changes—not in some distant future, but in the here and now. In this exclusive roundtable discussion, four leading supply chain experts analyze the current technological trends reshaping the industry.
The distinguished panel includes: Brock Johns, Director Analyst at Gartner; Norm Sanez, Partner and Managing Director at St. Onge Company; Dwight Klappich, Vice President and Fellow at Gartner; and Howard Turner, Director of Supply Chain Execution Systems at St. Onge Company. Faced with global disruptions, labor shortages, and escalating efficiency demands, businesses urgently need to adopt smarter, technology-driven strategies. But how far have we truly progressed? And what should companies prioritize to maintain competitive advantage?
The Limitations of Manual Management
As operational complexity grows exponentially, manual management approaches are proving increasingly inadequate. Modern Transportation Management System (TMS) solutions now offer far more than just tools to help shippers address cost, efficiency, and visibility challenges—they provide comprehensive support systems.
"When companies need to source from new suppliers or geographical locations, establishing relationships with new carriers becomes essential. Today's TMS platforms streamline this process, enabling efficient transportation procurement," explains Howard Turner.
Real-Time Data and AI-Driven Efficiency
Through API integrations that provide real-time connectivity with carriers, shippers gain immediate access to freight rate data, enabling better cost management. Simultaneously, TMS systems are leveraging AI technology to automate an expanding range of workflows, significantly boosting operational efficiency.
With the broader adoption of generative AI, experts anticipate further efficiency gains as these technologies simplify data collection and analysis. "Our research consistently shows that shippers derive the greatest benefits from TMS in transportation procurement and planning functions," notes Brock Johns.
The Evolving Capabilities of TMS
Modern TMS planning functions encompass multiple critical elements: load consolidation and optimization, transportation mode selection, carrier and rate selection, continuous route optimization with backhaul coordination, and multi-level global shipment planning. These systems ensure optimal carrier selection at the most competitive rates across all scenarios.
"The most significant savings often come from consolidation and optimization. Shippers can combine orders to create multi-stop loads, maximizing truck capacity utilization," emphasizes Norm Sanez.
As Dwight Klappich observes, "We're witnessing a paradigm shift where technology isn't just supporting logistics operations—it's fundamentally redefining how supply chains function. The companies that embrace these changes today will shape the industry standards of tomorrow."
The consensus among experts is clear: in an era of increasing complexity, technology adoption has transitioned from competitive advantage to operational necessity. As AI and automation continue to mature, their integration into logistics and supply chain management will only deepen, creating both challenges and opportunities for businesses worldwide.