U.S. labor productivity soared at a 4.9% rate in the most recent quarter as compared to the typical annualized rate of 2% during the current business cycle. We are seeing productivity gains across the board as manufacturers utilize predictive processes such as SIOP and advanced technologies such as AI, robotics, and the automation of processes and better utilization of ERP.
Manufacturing has been in contraction for the last few years, while geopolitical risks are heightened and tariffs have created additional uncertainty, yet the future is starting to look bright. Investments and expansions are picking up. The most successful manufacturers will position for success by preparing for opportunities, mitigating risks and building resiliency and capabilities.
Global supply chains started a full transformation in 2025 spurred on with geopolitical risk and encouraged by tariffs, and the pace accelerates as the New Year kicks off with geopolitics dominating the conversation and fundamentals making a comeback. We review learnings from the prior year and priorities for success in 2026.
In this Supply Chain Byte, Lisa Anderson outlines three priorities for the year ahead. These priorities set the foundation for resilience, growth and sustained success in an increasingly complex environment.
A holiday message from Lisa Anderson and LMA Consulting Group. We expect significant opportunities for manufacturing and proactive executives with agile, regional supply chains, proactive processes such as SIOP, artificial intelligence and a focus on talent will thrive.
In this Supply Chain Byte, Lisa Anderson highlights the growing skills gap among early-career professionals and explains why and how investing in developing the next generation of supply chain talent is essential for long-term success.
Supply chains don’t run themselves—people do. In this Supply Chain Byte, Lisa Anderson reminds us to recognize the individuals who keep operations moving every day. From planners and schedulers to warehouse teams, buyers, operations and production staff, these are the people who prevent disruptions and quietly keep everything on track
In this Supply Chain Byte, Lisa Anderson explains why manufacturers must upskill their workforce not only to improve efficiencies and reduce low-level work done by highly skilled employees, but also to preserve critical knowledge as Baby Boomers retire.
Robots aren’t just a futuristic concept—they’re already transforming how manufacturers and distributors stay competitive. In this Supply Chain Byte, Lisa Anderson uses the example of Amazon to explain how robotics are filling labor gaps, boosting productivity and enabling greater flexibility across supply chains.
I was interviewed by the Intelligent Enterprise Leaders Alliance for their latest publication recently as part of a panel of experts featuring Women in Manufacturing. Industry 4.0 is the next frontier of smart manufacturing with advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence. In the interview, we discussed significant opportunities for [...]
