When a manufacturing firm decides to develop a digital supply chain, the business can enjoy a host of advantages that include performance improvements. The advantages also come with a number of risks unless the transformation approach includes cross-functional collaboration and integration of data flows. - By Wilfred Smith

Manufacturing companies have not unlocked the full potential of digital technologies to date, but the transformation is in process. It is wise to proceed with caution, especially when the supply chain is the target of digitization. There are risks involved with implementing any technology, and some have significant consequences, like inability to meet customer delivery expectations.