This episode explores the industrial internet of things and its reach across supply chains, with examples drawn from shipping, automotive and manufacturing. A recurring theme is that sharing data widely gives more people the chance to spot insights that an isolated analyst would never find.
A particular focus is ocean shipping, which remains largely untouched by connected sensors even though other parts of the chain are advanced. Without live data, ships cannot adjust their routes to weather, and they face greater exposure to accidents and piracy. The discussion notes how arrival times are currently predicted by combining many indirect data feeds, and how sensor-equipped containers for delicate cargo began as a premium courier service and are now moving into ocean freight. It also touches on how the pandemic exposed the importance of supply chains.