The modern supply chain is a complex weave of new technology and legacy systems all working toward the same goal, to keep products moving. New technology and the rapid rate of adoption is leaving many in the supply-chain industry wondering how they can keep up.

Furthermore, as the industry continues to struggle with finding new talent to bolster its workforce, businesses are often left understaffed while managing a more complex supply network. With all these disruptions the industry faces today, an age-old solution might be what is needed. Let’s take a look at how modern education and training can be used to combat some of the supply chains most destructive disruptors.

New Workplace Culture

A new generation, the millennials, are making their way into the supply-chain workforce. These individuals are maturing in a world surrounded by technology and the ability to work from anywhere at any time. Millennials thrive when a company’s workplace culture focuses on specific key areas.

Work/life balance, collaboration, and access to innovative technology will help this new workforce thrive while also benefiting the organization as a whole. Ensuring that the entire staff of any company is cognizant of the latest workplace culture trends can help reduce the chance of a communication gap. If an employee who is accustomed to working from the office for a majority of their day never sees another employee in the office, it can cause a rift. Encouraging employees to use new systems to stay connected, even while away from the office can do great things for any business. With this younger generation making up more and more of the entire workforce, training staff on this culture trends can have a profound impact on the firm as a whole.

Technological Disruptions

With technology advancing so rapidly, supply-chain managers are having a hard time keeping up. Disruptors can lead to a host of problems all of which can impact the effectiveness of a supply network. Many businesses are willing to invest in the latest technology but often overlook a critical component, training. Any company can invest in new technology, but it will only be as effective as the workforce is capable. Without investing in education and training to accustom employees to new supply-chain management technology, a business won’t be able to thrive in today’s business environment.

Revised Regulations

With an uncertain geopolitical climate, new laws and sanctions have become a regular part of life. These global disruptions can weigh heavy on a modern supply chain, even those that use the most advanced technology. To properly maintain and manage their global supply chains effectively, education will be critical. However, using education as a tool will differ from regular training seminars. Employees and supply-chain managers must be encouraged to go out and accumulate their resources to stay current with the latest global disruptions. If regulations surrounding a critical link in the supply chain, having that information available as soon as possible can lead to better decision making when sourcing, purchasing or transporting freight.

Even though the supply-chain landscape is transforming rapidly, there are ways to keep your business moving forward. Education and training will be required to keep supply-chain managers up to date with the rapidly advancing industry. Though some of the knowledge needed is unconventional, creating a system that works for a particular organization will be a sure way to increase competitiveness and efficiency.

This article first appeared on AirFreight.bid.