Why Data Foundations Matter for AI in Supply Chains

Why It Matters

Effective data foundations unlock AI’s value, giving firms a competitive edge in increasingly volatile supply chains.

Key Takeaways

• AI shifting from hype to tangible supply‑chain operations
• Robust data foundations enable real‑time network visibility
• Human‑machine collaboration drives agile decision‑making
• Automation enhances warehouse efficiency and customer experience
• Infor Nexus showcases connected ecosystem for AI scalability

Pulse Analysis

The surge in artificial intelligence within supply chains is no longer a buzzword; it is becoming a core operational capability. Executives are recognizing that AI’s promise hinges on reliable, high‑quality data streams and interoperable networks. Platforms that consolidate transactional, sensor, and partner data provide the backbone for predictive analytics, enabling firms to anticipate disruptions and optimize inventory in near real‑time. This data‑centric approach shifts AI from experimental pilots to scalable solutions that directly impact cost and service levels.

Human expertise remains critical, but its role is evolving into a collaborative partnership with intelligent systems. As supply chains grow more complex, decision‑makers need agility without sacrificing accuracy. Integrated ecosystems like Infor Nexus facilitate this by linking manufacturers, logistics providers, and retailers on a single data layer, allowing machine‑learning models to surface actionable insights while humans validate and steer outcomes. This synergy accelerates response times, reduces manual errors, and supports strategic initiatives such as sustainable sourcing and demand shaping.

The tangible benefits are already evident in warehouse automation and customer experience enhancements. AI‑driven robotics streamline picking, packing, and inventory reconciliation, cutting labor costs and boosting throughput. Simultaneously, predictive order fulfillment and real‑time shipment tracking elevate the end‑customer journey, fostering loyalty and higher margins. As more organizations adopt these technologies, the competitive landscape will reward those with robust data foundations and a culture of human‑machine collaboration, setting the stage for the next wave of supply‑chain innovation.

Original Description

At Manifest 2026 in Las Vegas, Scott Luton sits down with Heidi Benko, Vice President of Product Strategy and Marketing for Infor Nexus, to discuss how supply chain leaders are navigating disruption, accelerating AI adoption, and building the data foundations needed for smarter, faster decision-making. Heidi shares how organizations are shifting from AI hype to real-world applications that connect global partners, improve visibility across networks, and strengthen customer experience through automation and collaboration.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

- Why AI adoption in supply chains is moving from hype to real operational use

- The growing importance of strong data foundations and connected business networks

- How companies can balance agility with increasing supply chain complexity

- Why human + machine collaboration is becoming essential to supply chain strategy

- How automation and AI are improving warehouse operations and customer experience

- Key insights from Manifest 2026 and where supply chain innovation is headed next

Additional Links & Resources:

Connect with Heidi: https://www.linkedin.com/in/heidibenko/

Learn more about Infor Nexus: https://www.infor.com/

See more coverage from Manifest 2026: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLlLoUG3n7TmU6SeFG__XDNUjOgq_QN3tD

Learn more about our hosts: https://supplychainnow.com/about

Learn more about Supply Chain Now: https://supplychainnow.com

Watch and listen to more Supply Chain Now episodes here: https://supplychainnow.com/program/supply-chain-now

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