Next Generation Manufacturing Canada, the industry-led organization behind Canada’s Advanced Manufacturing Supercluster, is pumping $8 million into a program designed to boost supply chain resilience for manufacturers.
The project will be led by Canadian technology company ThinkData Works Inc. in partnership with Palantir Technologies Canada and auto parts leader Martinrea International.
NGen believes the current global supply chain crisis will continue to negatively impact commerce in 2022 and beyond, increasing the need for a solution that safeguards manufacturers against risks and disruptions.
Through a combination of ThinkData’s external data assets, data management software, and Palantir Canada’s AI and analytics capabilities, a Supply Chain Resiliency Platform is being developed to intelligently analyze, predict, and alert manufacturers of potential disruptions – as well as recommend preventative measures.
The solution, which Martinrea will be first to adopt, will model complex supply chains, layer on global supply chain events data, and flow in alternative supplier catalogs.
The platform provides a centralized view with predictive analytics, real-time alerts, and recommended actions. “Powerful AI fuelled by external data gives manufacturers a competitive edge, and the ability to avoid potential supply chain disruptions before they occur. It’s a game-changer for the industry.” says Bryan Smith, CEO, ThinkData.
Martinrea estimates that outcomes will include more than $40 million in annual value from avoided disruptions and optimizations. “We are very excited to develop this platform in collaboration with ThinkData and Palantir Canada, and to solve concrete problems through digital innovation.” said Megan Hunter, Executive Vice President of Procurement and Supply Chain Operations, Martinrea.
