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Preparing your team for supply chain modernization.

The journey to digitally transforming the supply chain of a business is challenging, often complicated by resistance from the people tasked with implementing it. Today, more than ever, organizations need to recognize that employees are not obstacles, but critical enablers of success.

Modern supply chains are no longer linear flows of goods; they are highly integrated, data-driven networks requiring real-time visibility and collaboration. This shift demands changes in processes, technology and mindsets, which can be intimidating for employees navigating this new reality.

Yet, it’s precisely these employees who hold the key to unlocking the full potential of a digital transformation. To succeed, businesses must foster a workplace culture that champions adaptability, innovation and resilience. Here’s how to engage your workforce in reimagining the supply chain:

1. Rethink talent recruitment and development.

In a rapidly evolving supply chain environment, who you hire and how you support their growth is paramount. Employees need to be equipped with skills to navigate and drive digital transformation, which is why most companies prioritize attracting talent and upskilling employees. Attract prospective talent by emphasizing opportunities for continuous learning. Once on board, provide tools and programs to support their career development. Initiatives like mentoring can foster knowledge transfer, build camaraderie and ensure employees are engaged in their everyday processes.

2. Align corporate values with digital goals.

Employees’ trust and engagement are strongest when corporate values align with day-to-day practices. If transforming the supply chain is a priority, the workplace must promote togetherness and transparency. For instance, a company operating in silos may struggle to implement a digital supply chain that relies on information sharing. Breaking down these silos and fostering cross-functional teams ensures goal alignment. Values like agility, efficiency and innovation must be evident in daily operations — not just mission statements.

3. Leverage diverse perspectives.

Digital transformation requires a holistic approach, but supply chain leaders may lack the necessary diversity of thought within their teams. Engaging voices from across the supply chain including suppliers, customers and even competitors can provide valuable insights. Encouraging communication across disciplines and industries ensures your strategy accounts for all aspects of the supply chain. Employees feel more engaged when they see a broader purpose and are invited to contribute to shaping strategies.

4. Implement agile processes.

Agility is essential in today’s supply chain. Companies must adapt quickly to changing conditions, leveraging real-time data and technology to optimize processes. Building an agile culture requires transparency, clearly defined roles and a structure where employees understand how their work supports broader goals. Agility also empowers employees to make incremental improvements and adapt to new tools like machine learning and virtual reality. Training programs should focus on equipping teams with the skills to thrive in a digitally integrated supply chain.

5. Foster values-driven communication and decision-making.

Top-down directives often fail to engage employees. Instead, empower employees by involving them in decision-making and encouraging them to apply corporate values in their work. Organizations that decentralize decision-making tend to generate better ideas and improve response times. Personal interactions, such as one-on-one meetings, help bridge the gap between leadership and employees, making goals more tangible and actionable. Managers who focus on building trust and empowering their teams foster a team where engagement thrives.

Building the future of supply chains.

Successful digital transformation hinges on creating a workplace culture that inspires employees to embrace change and appreciate their contributions. Engaged employees are the cornerstone of supply chains that are efficient, customer-focused, and resilient. The secret to engaging employees isn’t just about adapting to technology — it’s about creating an environment that sparks imagination, fosters collaboration and drives change. The future of supply chains starts with the people who power them.

CommercePayments® solutions are provided by Commerce Bank.