Relentless competition, technological shifts and supply chain turmoil are fueling the need for greater efficiency in the industry — and AI promises to deliver it. But it often misses one crucial requirement: reliable, up-to-date data.
Most manufacturers operate with data spread across different systems, manual records and periodic updates. The result? Teams solve yesterday's problems while lacking visibility into what is happening right now. Without accurate, real-time data, AI can only deliver limited value.
This article points out real-life examples and highlights a key lesson: AI is only as good as the information behind it. It shows the approach of a company that focused on data collection first and achieved measurable results: 50% reduction in safety stock, real-time inventory visibility and 18,000 labor hours saved annually.