Input Stories

Amid economic uncertainty, CIOs are searching for strategies and tech that combat supply chain difficulties, according to The Wall Street Journal (subscription).

Priorities: “Chief information officers say they are prioritizing technology that drives efficiency, mitigates ongoing supply-chain struggles and contributes quickly to the bottom line.”

• CIOs say they are monitoring markets, supply chain problems and inflation as they make tech investments.

Managing backlogs: Many CIOs have managed backlogs by placing orders far in advance. According to Walgreens Boots Alliance CIO Francesco Tinto, delivery times for certain store products have doubled from 8 to 16 weeks. 

Carhartt’s supply chain strategy: The workwear and outdoor apparel company Carhartt is working to combat supply chain issues by enhancing its ability to proactively redirect or expedite necessary supplies. To do this, Carhartt is working with transportation and warehousing company Manhattan Associates and integrating supply chain data from outside parties into its systems.

What CIOs are saying: “During times of economic uncertainty, companies look for ways where technology can drive growth and create more economic value faster,” said Salesforce CIO Juan Perez. “When budgets are under significant scrutiny, companies tend to place more emphasis on shorter-term solutions that can drive efficiency and productivity.”