Recent research shows that 90% of logistics leaders indicate that their organization lacks the digital talent to achieve their goals in this area. This figure has barely changed since 2020, meaning progress is practically stalled.

How can logistics teams turn disruptions into an advantage and equip themselves with the right tools to bridge the digital talent gap? The answer lies in 'connected intelligence': a connected transport ecosystem where real-time data, AI, human decision-making, and partners work together. This forms the essential backbone for resilience, transparency, and dynamic value creation.

The importance of a connected supply chain

Connected intelligence offers clear benefits, starting with predictive planning and early warnings. Recent data shows that 60% of companies now have full visibility into their tier-one suppliers, such as key manufacturers and suppliers of parts and raw materials. Last year, this percentage was still 50%. This is a sign of progress.

However, the definition of visibility varies. For many, it means better insight into supplier inventories, reliability in deliveries, or risk factors such as delays, shortages, or geopolitical instability.

But visibility alone is not enough. Only a quarter of companies have formal processes at the board level for assessing risks in the supply chain, and few executives believe their boards fully understand those risks. This gap makes organizations vulnerable.

An integrated platform helps bridge this gap by detecting disruptions early and bringing them to the attention of decision-makers before problems escalate.

Moreover, connected intelligence enables smarter, data-driven decisions. Although 51% of logistics leaders see supply chain digitization as a top priority (after cost reduction), more than half expect that by the end of 2025, they will automate only 25% or less of their transport processes. The ambition is there, but action lags behind.

Data sharing between different links enables AI-driven forecasting, real-time coordination, and adaptive execution. Thus, data becomes a basis for faster, smarter decisions. Modern logistics software plays a crucial role in this: it connects systems, partners, and data in one environment.

To deliver real value, a platform must do more than just collect data. It must integrate fragmented systems, standardize input, and translate this into shared intelligence. This is where the power of interoperability comes into play. By bringing together anonymized data from carriers, shippers, freight forwarders, and retailers, AI models can continuously improve.

The more inclusive and standardized the data, the better AI performs. Thus, a truly connected ecosystem offers benefits for all participants.

Unlocking resilience, business advantage, trust, and sustainability

By leveraging robust data and (generative) AI applications, companies achieve above-average results, such as 2.5 times higher revenue growth and 2.4 times more productivity. By collecting and organizing data and decision-making in real-time, a connected transport ecosystem helps logistics teams adapt faster and become stronger and more resilient.

Transparent data also plays a key role in sustainability and compliance. Regulations such as the EU directive on due diligence in sustainability require companies to provide more transparency about their procurement activities and standards they apply for partners. Only 9% of companies currently claim to comply with these rules, and 30% report falling behind.

As expectations continue to rise, connected intelligence can help organizations stay ahead without sacrificing agility.

The crucial role of data sharing

A connected ecosystem enhances the accuracy of forecasts through joint demand analysis. Instead of relying on outdated seasonal models, real-time data enables logistics teams to adjust plans immediately.

Shared real-time visibility also improves strategic collaboration. More and more logistics players are sharing anonymized data through an integrated platform and network, making trends visible and improving decision-making within the sector. When parties work with the same real-time information, it also fosters trust and efficient collaboration.

As supply chains become more complex and interdependence increases, shared data will form the basis for trust and speed on a large scale.

Resilience is a journey, not a destination

Resilience is an ongoing process of development. From flexible planning to AI-driven execution: it requires continuous innovation. But innovation also depends on capacity, and many logistics teams still struggle with a digital talent shortage that hinders them.

The ability of a platform to gather anonymized operational data from the network is crucial to fill this gap. This shared data feeds the AI algorithms that provide smarter forecasts, flexible sourcing, dynamic routing, more efficient warehouse processes, and increasingly automated decision-making. This can help compensate for the digital talent shortage. It enables teams to scale insights without expanding the workforce. When everyone contributes, everyone benefits.

Modern logistics software is central to this evolution: it combines AI, real-time visibility, and data exchange in one platform, bringing connected intelligence to life within the transport ecosystem. It enables adaptive, efficient, and resilient supply chains, allowing companies to thrive in an uncertain world while increasing their profitability.

For more information about Transporeon visit: www.transporeon.com

Philipp Pfister, Sector Vice President, Transporeon