John Lewis Partnership (JLP), a leading British retailer, is exploring the potential of a digital twin to optimize and improve its supply chain. A digital twin is a virtual representation of an object or system that uses real-time data, simulation, and machine learning to assist in decision-making. The aim is to discover new possibilities and solve existing and future business challenges. JLP has engaged with IBM Client Engineering to take the initial steps towards creating a digital twin of their supply chain. This partnership has allowed JLP to address data challenges, increase visibility, and create a user-friendly interface for better decision-making. The project has shown the potential of real-time data and the benefits of having data in a single location. This development puts JLP on the path towards a digital twin of its supply chain.

What is a digital twin?

A digital twin is a virtual representation of an object or system that spans its lifecycle, is updated from real-time data, and uses simulation, machine learning and reasoning to help decision-making.

Why IBM Client Engineering?

IBM Client Engineering was chosen by JLP to co-create and explore innovative ways to increase efficiency within their supply chain. The partnership used a human approach to solve complex business problems with transformative technology. IBM Client Engineering’s expertise in data modeling and user interface design allowed them to absorb JLP’s complex data sets and transform them into a dynamic and interactive performance dashboard. The collaboration between IBM and JLP energized both teams and showcased the potential of a digital twin for the supply chain.

What possibilities did this data visualization project highlight?

This project highlighted the potential of a digital twin for the supply chain. It allowed JLP to visualize their supply chain with different perspectives, evaluate overall performance, and make data-enriched strategic and tactical decisions. The project also demonstrated the benefits of having data in a single logical location and showcased the complexity within datasets such as supply chain, customer orders, and revenue represented in relation to each other in a dynamic interactive dashboard.

Where do you see this going next?

JLP sees immense potential in the digital twin concept for the supply chain. They envision having the ability to visualize the supply chain with different perspectives across sites, groups, regions, and specific metrics and timelines. This would provide them with a comprehensive view of performance and enable data-enriched strategic and tactical decision-making. The partnership with IBM Client Engineering has set JLP on the path towards achieving this vision and leveraging the power of a digital twin for their supply chain.

FAQ

What is a digital twin?

A digital twin is a virtual representation of an object or system that spans its lifecycle, is updated from real-time data, and uses simulation, machine learning and reasoning to help decision-making.

What are the benefits of a digital twin for the supply chain?

A digital twin allows for better visibility, optimization, and decision-making in the supply chain. It enables businesses to test new strategies and technologies in a virtual environment without affecting the physical supply chain. It also provides real-time data and insights that can be used to improve performance and make data-enriched decisions.

How does IBM Client Engineering help with creating a digital twin?

IBM Client Engineering is a team of experts who work closely with businesses to co-create solutions using transformative technology. They can help with data modeling, user interface design, and the implementation of a digital twin to optimize and improve the supply chain. Their expertise and collaborative approach ensure that businesses can achieve their goals and unlock the potential of a digital twin.

What are the future possibilities of a digital twin for the supply chain?

A digital twin can revolutionize the supply chain by providing a comprehensive view of performance, enabling data-enriched decision-making, and identifying opportunities for improvement. With a digital twin, businesses can explore new strategies, optimize processes, and respond quickly to changes and disruptions. It has the potential to transform the way supply chains are managed and revolutionize the customer experience.