In the pharmaceutical industry, time and quality control are paramount due to the sensitive nature of medicines and biotech products. Visibility in pharma supply chains means using technology to continuously track a product’s location, temperature, and conditions. Advanced technologies like AI and automation enhance distribution efficiency and safety.
Pharmaceutical supply chains involve multiple stakeholders and data reporting tools, increasing the risk of data silos and inefficiencies. Unlike other cargo, pharmaceutical products are critical for health, necessitating meticulous documentation and monitoring. Temperature deviations can lead to product recalls, impacting patient care, as noted by Gaetan Van Exem from Maersk.
Key types of visibility include:
- Location Tracking: Using control towers and GPS, businesses can monitor real-time locations, enabling route optimization and disruption management.
- Temperature Monitoring: Temperature loggers transmit data to dashboards, ensuring products remain within safe ranges. This integration helps teams respond swiftly to issues.
- Strategic Insights: Data analytics reveal supply chain gaps and performance, aiding in route and transportation mode decisions. As Samuel Okon from Maersk highlights, comprehensive visibility is crucial for effective decision-making.
Future advancements will offer integrated solutions, reducing costs, waste, and improving sustainability. Enhanced traceability will also allow patients to track their medicines, ensuring transparency and safety throughout the supply chain.