102 FEATURE Azure and o9’s Digital Brain with Azure OpenAI enable planners to run ‘what-if’ analyses for disruptions such as tariffs, demand shifts or logistics constraints. These capabilities allow organisations to quickly evaluate alternatives, re-source components and adjust routes, turning planning from a static process into a dynamic, data-driven discipline. Microsoft applies these same principles internally. “By leveraging real-time disruption sensing, predictive analytics and AI-assisted planning on a connected data backbone, our teams simulate alternatives, align decisions quickly and coordinate execution across suppliers,” says Sircar. “This operating model – documented in Microsoft’s supply-chain resilience guidance – shifts planning from reactive to proactive, data-driven decisioning.” Microsoft’s leadership in this space was recognised by Gartner, ranking ninth in its 2025 Global Supply Chain Top 25 for advancing autonomous operations through demandsensing and generative AI, democratising decision-making, and championing sustainability initiatives such as reducing greenhouse gas emissions and adopting sustainable aviation fuel. The measurable gains achieved by organisations adopting this approach are compelling. Grupo Bimbo – one of the world’s largest baking companies – for example, has used Microsoft Power Platform to deliver tens of millions of dollars in annual savings while empowering thousands of employees to automate processes. While technology is critical, Sircar stresses workforce enablement and ecosystem collaboration are equally central to the future of supply chains. Companies that invest in role-based academies, digital assistants and automation often realise productivity gains of 20 to 30 per cent, maintaining throughput even during labour shortages. “At Microsoft, we support workforce enablement through Copilot, digital work instructions and collaborative solutions like Teams and Viva, helping employees adapt to new systems and processes,” says Sircar. “We also foster ecosystem collaboration by providing a secure, composable platform that connects partners, suppliers and customers in real time. This approach accelerates innovation, drives adoption and builds resilience across the entire value chain. As supply chains become more autonomous and interconnected, we believe that investing in people and partnerships will be the defining factor for success. “Equally important, our adoption programmes and change management patterns help organisations overcome cultural and social barriers to AI adoption, so workforce transformation sticks.” Bridgestone has incorporated Microsoft 365 and Copilot into daily operations and has seen marked improvements in productivity and inventory optimisation Photo: Bridgestone Photo: Grupo Bimbo
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