Role of supply chain complexity in logistics

The supply chain is one of the most complex forces in the business world. It is composed of a multitude of companies, all working together to deliver products to retailers and consumers.
Supply chain complexity can be defined as the degree to which a supply chain is complex in terms of its structure and how it interacts with other chains. Complexity can range from simple to complicated, where simple chains are easier to understand and manage while complicated chains are more difficult.
A supply chain with a single customer at one end and a few suppliers at the other will be relatively simple. This type of supply chain is called linear. On the other hand, a supply chain with many suppliers and customers will be complicated and difficult to manage. Such types are called non-linear or complex chains because they include many links in their networks.
The complexity of logistics is determined by three factors: one-to-many relationships, many-to-one relationships, and isolated nodes (single entities).
Supply chains are so complex that it’s hard to manage all the aspects without AI assistance. AI makes the supply chain more efficient and sustainable by connecting different parts of the supply chain together, thus bringing more transparency and a top-notch customer experience.
Through AI, supply chains have benefitted from visibility into all aspects of their operations, across the entire network. It also provides insights into potential bottlenecks and increases efficiency by forecasting demand without human error.
The complexity of the supply chain has a significant effect on how logistics is managed by companies today. Logistics management includes everything that happens between production, warehousing, distribution, and retailing functions; this includes shipping goods from one part of the country or world to another.
The complexity of the supply chain industry has grown over the past few decades. This is due to how global trade has been increasing and more markets have been opening up. These global trends have created more challenges for logistics professionals in terms of costs, transportation options, and supply chain management.
The supply chain industry is transforming with technological advancements. The traditional “push” model has shifted to an “on-demand” system, which is expected to continue shaping the future of logistics.
Supply chains are complex and introduce many challenges. The increased number of touchpoints in an organization (e.g., suppliers, warehouses, customers) has contributed to a fragmented and opaque supply chain cycle that is difficult for organizations to manage today.
Supply chain complexity is the degree to which goods, services, and assets are dispersed within a supply chain. When assets are limited to centralized points of production and distribution, it reduces the number of steps involved in a supply chain. This centralization means that all suppliers are located near their customers which improves efficiency and reduces risk.
To compete in this competitive market, companies have started using more complex supply chains so that they can remain competitive by getting products and services closer to buyers. A similar approach is followed by WLT Logistics Inc. in dealing with different types of supply chain challenges.