ERP

Ransomware is considered a major danger to the cold food chain from a digital standpoint. Businesses find it more difficult to transport goods when computer systems are locked down, and waste is more likely. The Department of Homeland Security reports that in the first half of 2023 alone, ransomware criminals extorted at least $449.1 million.

There's a good chance that soon, cybersecurity risk may increase in scope. Several of the mid-market businesses that represent the backbone of the food supply chain are growing their digital footprints for several reasons, some of which are competitive and others of which are in response to regulatory mandates. This implies that the attack surface will increase.

The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into many industries has led to incredible advancement, including within the warehousing sector. AI technologies have brought about a substantial transformation in traditional warehouse operations by providing creative solutions that improve overall efficiency and streamline processes. The warehouse industry has reached a turning point and warehouse management is entering a period of never-before-seen innovation and efficiency.

ERP technology will see a significant shift in 2024, with a focus on cloud-based systems and integrated AI capabilities. These days, companies are searching for customizable, cloud-based systems with mobile capabilities, AI with real-time data analytics, and easy interaction with other digital tools, all in a secure environment.

We’re back from Disney, where we held this year’s VAI Customer Conference, Prevail 2023. With so much excitement and momentum going into the planning of the conference, expectations were high, and attendees were not disappointed. It’s been several years since the last in-person gathering, and we’ve found that our customers embraced face-to-face interaction, with many of them claiming that an in-person meeting is far more productive than a virtual one and that it feels nice to be free of the distractions of daily office life.

We’re just days away from VAI Prevail 2023, our first onsite event since Nashville, TN in 2018. After several years of successful virtual connection, the VAI team, customers, and partners are ready for in-person and face-to-face networking and collaboration. This year, we’re heading to the Walt Disney Swan Resort in Lake Buena Vista, FL, and we have an incredible itinerary over two days.

While concerns have risen around cloud migration, the benefits far outweigh the challenges, and having a cloud strategy can enhance your security profile. In a recent article I published in Strategic CIO 360, I outlined the challenges and pluses of cloud migration, how to handle both, and why you need to make sure your provider is fully transparent about costs.