We all know of disruptive technologies that transformed entire industries: VCRs, personal computers, the World Wide Web, cell phones and more.
In the latest issue of MDM Premium, we kick off our analysis of the potential impact of technologies that could be disruptive to the wholesale distribution industry:
- 3-D printing
- Augmented reality
- Robotics/automation
- Delivery innovation, such as drones and driverless cars
Isn’t it early to plan for the potential impact of these technologies?
I don’t think so. A good leader is always keeping his eyes on the horizon so that he can see what’s coming and continually adapt for the potential impacts – and opportunities – those changes will have on his business.
In fact, these technologies’ impact on the supply chains and operations of businesses across industries is closer than you might think.
3-D printing, for one, could change how products go to market, giving more power to the local and regional supply base.
And augmented reality has the potential to significantly improve how distribution centers and remote service operations are run. Some manufacturers are already using it. Check out this video from APX Labs, a developer of software for smart glasses:
Read the first two articles in MDM’s disruptive technologies series, featured in the latest issue of MDM Premium:
