The global supply chain landscape is fraught with challenges, from regulatory pressures to fluctuating market demands. In this evolving environment, resilience and efficiency are no longer optional; they are essential. In an interview with Business Reporter*, Helena Jochberger discusses leveraging data-sharing ecosystems to address these challenges and future-proof supply chains.
What is a data-sharing ecosystem?
A data-sharing ecosystem is a collaborative network in which commercial organizations, governments, and individuals share, analyze, and utilize data through a unified platform. Helena explains that these ecosystems offer three key benefits:
- Transparency: Real-time visibility into supply chains enhances reliability and helps companies adapt to disruptions more effectively.
- Innovation: Collaboration among ecosystem participants fosters the development of new ideas and solutions that drive efficiency and competitive advantage.
- Compliance: Regulatory requirements, such as the EU Data Act mandating digital data passports for products, are easier to meet within a standardized ecosystem.
A digital data passport, for example, provides critical information about a product’s origin, CO2 footprint, and use of hazardous materials, ensuring traceability and adherence to environmental standards.
Real-world application: The Catena-X example
Catena-X, an automotive data-sharing network founded in 2021, demonstrates the value of such ecosystems. During the COVID-19 pandemic, supply chain disruptions revealed the need for real-time data exchange. Catena-X enables automotive manufacturers to identify and address potential bottlenecks before they escalate, ensuring critical components are sourced and delivered on time.
For example, if a supplier cannot fulfill an order, real-time data allows the manufacturer to quickly find alternatives, adjust production timelines and minimize delays.
CGI’s role in supporting ecosystems
CGI provides comprehensive support to businesses aiming to adopt or join data-sharing ecosystems. Solutions and services include:
- Data strategy development: Tailoring data management and sharing strategies to specific business needs.
- Security and cloud solutions: Ensuring secure and efficient data exchange.
- Managed IT services: Operating data ecosystems for companies with limited resources.
This approach is especially beneficial for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) that may lack the infrastructure to build their own ecosystems but can thrive by joining existing networks like Catena-X.
Learn more about CGI’s partnership with Catena-X
The future of data-sharing ecosystems
Helena envisions a future where data-sharing ecosystems become the norm across industries. Integrating cutting-edge technologies like artificial intelligence (AI) will further enhance their effectiveness, enabling predictive insights and seamless collaboration.
“In a few years, we will see far more industry-specific data-sharing ecosystems,” Helena predicts, emphasizing the potential for these platforms to transform global supply chain ecosystems.
Conclusion
Data-sharing ecosystems are revolutionizing supply chains by fostering collaboration, enhancing transparency, and ensuring compliance. As industries continue to adopt these platforms, supported by firms like CGI, they will unlock new levels of resilience and innovation, ensuring a sustainable and efficient future for global supply chains.
Original article and video: Building resilient supply chains with data-sharing ecosystems
