Real-Time Satellite Data for Supply Chain Optimization in the Netherlands

vident that the COVID-19 pandemic has had a profound impact on global trade and supply chains. The challenges of moving physical goods have become increasingly complex as people are in lockdown and many businesses are not running as usual. This has led to significant disruptions in product flow and transportation logistics, creating real problems for customers worldwide.

EY, a leading global organization, was already collaborating with one of the world’s largest advanced manufacturing companies to enhance their supply chain when the pandemic struck. In response, EY intensified its efforts and utilized advanced analytics tools such as process mining and satellite imaging to predict customer demand and maintain the smooth flow of goods through crucial ports.

In times of uncertainty, asking the right questions is crucial. EY posed three essential questions to address the challenges faced by their client:
1. How can alternate routes to market be explored?
2. Do current production flows align with the varying needs of customers?
3. How can data and analytics facilitate real-time decision-making to ensure efficient supply chain operations?

By leveraging satellite data, EY gained valuable insights into port activities globally, enabling them to proactively manage congestion and delays. This information allowed EY to anticipate potential issues and redirect material flows to reduce disruptions. Moreover, by analyzing historical production patterns and sales orders over the past year, EY equipped their client with the tools to adjust production runs based on demand fluctuations, ensuring operational efficiency.

The implementation of advanced analytics and data-driven strategies has not only helped maintain the flow of essential goods but has also relieved their client’s workforce of the stress associated with crisis decision-making. Access to real-time data has empowered individuals to make informed choices, ultimately contributing to smoother operations during challenging times.

As a result of EY’s innovative solutions, their client can now navigate supply chain disruptions with greater resilience and efficiency, ensuring that essential goods reach those who need them most. This underscores the importance of building a data-driven approach to supply chain resilience, particularly in times of crisis, to uphold the integrity of global trade and logistics.