The Last Word

 logistical intelligence technologies, such as cloud computing, cloud databases, block chain authentication, artificial intelligence, and

 transport technologies - such as autonomous trucks40 and smart highways41 .

While the above technology examples sound expensive to acquire and implement, they need not be. The increased adoption of emerging technologies in the supply chain does not necessarily imply a significantly larger capital budget. An alternative business model being promoted by technology providers is that of cloudbased subscription services, offered by such well known IT providers as Amazon, Google, MicroSoft, AT&T, and others. Cloud based computing and data storage services offered by this new class of “technology 3PLs”, will significantly improve current SC processes and enable new ones. In many cases, the new tech 3PLs offer businesses a logistical solution that does not require a purchase of expensive hardware or software platforms. Smart supply chains of the not too distant future may thus be more affordable, and may not be as far off as some may think.

Conclusion

A perfect storm of positive developments is raising the business prominence and importance of Wilson County and its resident supply chain industry. An expanding national economy, recent world trade events, and accelerating commercial information technology offerings all combine to create new supply chain industry opportunities for the county. Wilson County is fortunate to have attracted many national corporations and global 3PLs to the area, likely guaranteeing many future economic benefits from one of the nation’s most important and expanding U.S. industries.

Reader Inquiries

Wilson County Trends welcomes all reader inquiries. Questions or comments, including omissions, corrections, article submissions, etc. may be directed to Steve Shao, PhD, Wilson County Trends Editor. Dr. Shao can be reached by phone at 615.453.6304 or by email at wilsoncountytrends@cumberland.edu

Appreciation is expressed by WCT’s editorial staff to the Tennessee Departments of Economic and Community Development, Transportation, and Revenue for their support and provision of data used in creation of this publication. We would also like to thank members of Cumberland University’s faculty and staff who provided many helpful suggestions, proof reading, and editing support.

The Last Word

A man is flying in a hot-air balloon and realizes he is lost. He reduces height and spots a man below. He lowers the balloon farther and shouts, "Excuse me! Can you tell me where I am?" The man below says: "Yes, you're in a hotair balloon, hovering 30 feet above this field." "You must be an engineer," says the balloonist. I am," replies the man. "How did you know?" Well," says the balloonist, "everything you have told me is technically correct, but it's no use to anyone." The man below says, "You must be in management." "I am," replies the balloonist, "but how did you know?" "Well," says the man, "you don't know where you are or where you're going, but you expect me to be able to help. You're in the same position you were before we met, but now it's my fault."

40 See, for example, Self-Driving Trucks: Timelines and Developments by Jon Walker, Tech Emergence, October 10, 2018, link at https://www.techemergence.com/self-driving-trucks-timelines/ . 41 See, for example, Which Way to the Smart Highway? by David Cullen, Trucking Info, November 16, 2017, link at https://www.truckinginfo.com/157822/which-way-to-the-smart-highway .