Transforming Supply Chains with Scalable IoT Innovation
Explore how IoT in Supply Chain Alliance enables end-to-end visibility, automation, and resilience with collaborative smart technologies.
Overview
From real-time insights to predictive automation, intelligent supply chain solutions are reshaping how goods move, decisions are made, and operations stay resilient. In today’s competitive landscape, businesses require scalable, integrated systems that improve visibility, reduce delays, and optimize every node in the logistics network. That’s where our network of collaborators comes in—uniting proven IoT expertise across North America to support end-to-end digital transformation for B2B supply chains. Through shared R&D, synchronized marketing, and aligned product roadmaps, we deliver high-performance IoT technologies that tackle the complexity of modern supply chains. The IoT in Supply Chain Alliance empowers customers with seamless connectivity, trusted data, and adaptable platforms—backed by dependable support and strategic guidance. Whether tracking assets, enhancing traceability, or automating workflows, we help organizations build smarter, more agile operations at scale.
Sensing Technologies
RFID (Radio-Frequency Identification)
RFID uses electromagnetic fields to automatically identify and track tags attached to objects. The tags contain a microchip with information and are powered by radio waves.
Passive RFID
Does not have a battery; activated by a reader’s radio signal. It has a shorter range
Feet
Active RFID
Contains a battery, which allows it to broadcast signals, extending its range
Barcodes & QR Codes
- 1D Barcodes
Traditional linear barcodes
- 2D QR Codes
Can store more data, often used for marketing or product info
NFC (Near Field Communication)
Short-range communication technology that allows two devices to communicate by touching or being close to each other (within a few centimeters).
Environmental Sensors
Temperature, humidity, pressure, vibration, air quality, light, etc.
Proximity & Motion Sensors
Sensors that detect proximity and movement.
Connectivity Technologies
Cellular Networks (4G/5G)
Mobile networks that provide high-speed data transmission.
Wi-Fi
Wireless networking technology used for device communication
LPWAN (Low-Power Wide Area Network)
Technologies: LoRa, NB-IoT, Sigfox Low-power, long-range networks ideal for devices that send small amounts of data intermittently.
Bluetooth / BLE (Bluetooth Low Energy)
Short-range wireless communication technology for proximity sensing and asset localization.
Zigbee / Z-Wave
Wireless mesh network protocols that allow devices to communicate with each other within a network
Data Processing & Edge Computing
Edge Computing
Processing data closer to the source (at the “edge”) to reduce latency and bandwidth use
Cloud Computing
Description: Centralized storage and processing of data in the cloud.
Tracking & Monitoring Technologies
GPS (Global Positioning System)
Satellite-based system for determining the location of assets in real-time
Geofencing
Satellite-based system for determining the location of assets in real-time
Telematics
Satellite-based system for determining the location of assets in real-time
Automation & Actuation Technologies
Robotics & AGVs (Automated Guided Vehicles)
Autonomous vehicles and robots for material handling and warehouse automation
Drones
Unmanned aerial vehicles used for inventory scanning, remote deliveries, and inspections.
Smart Packaging
Packaging integrated with sensors to monitor conditions such as temperature and moisture.
Smart Shelving
Shelves equipped with sensors to track inventory levels.
Platform & Software Technologies
IoT Platforms
Examples: AWS IoT, Microsoft Azure IoT, IBM Watson IoT Description: Platforms for device management, data collection, integration, and analysis.
Supply Chain Visibility Platforms
Description: Platforms for tracking and providing visibility of products through the supply chain.
Predictive Analytics Tools
Description: Tools for forecasting demand, scheduling maintenance, and managing risks
Security Technologies
Device Authentication
Description: Ensures that only trusted devices can connect to the network.
Data Encryption
Description: Protects sensitive data transmitted across IoT devices.
Blockchain Integration
Description: Uses distributed ledger technology to provide an immutable record of product movements.
Secure Firmware Updates
Description: Remote patching of vulnerabilities in devices without disrupting operations.
Integration Technologies
API Gateways
Description: Facilitate real-time data exchange between IoT devices and enterprise software
Middleware Solutions
Description: Normalize data formats across different IoT devices and ensure compatibility with legacy IT systems.
Digital Twins
Description: Virtual representations of physical assets, such as equipment or shipments.