In today’s Logistics & Supply Chain landscape, why has the importance of skills like Critical Thinking surged to new heights? AI and new technologies are speeding the digital transformation in this sector, and companies that can't adapt are falling behind.

Many firms in this sector struggle, not due to a lack of tech or finance, but because they overlook the importance of human skills. Can their teams innovate and compete without the right skills? Absolutely not!

Of course, training for these skills can be challenging, but forward-thinking companies recognize the urgency and act. It's no coincidence that the Logistics & Supply Chain industry is our fastest-growing vertical at Hardskills. Clients like DB Schenker, Kuok Group, YCH Group and others know that in a world driven by AI, adaptability is not a luxury - it's a prerequisite.

Supply chains diversifying away from China, the global trade boom, climate change challenges and digital disruptions are exposing vulnerabilities for many in the industry. These shifts are resulting in competition from multiple corners. South and Southeast Asia are grappling for a piece of the action. India’s substantial $25bn investment in infrastructure upgrades and Vietnam’s efforts to strengthen international ties, particularly with the U.S., are examples of how governments are capitalising on the moment.
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But for established players in logistics, the message is unmistakable: evolve swiftly or risk obsolescence. While many are on the path of technological overhauls, the real game-changers are those addressing a looming crisis – the scarcity of skilled talent.

India, with its vast workforce and abundance of tech professionals, seems poised to lead. However, as SAP Chairman Punit Renjen points out, sheer numbers don't equate to global competitiveness. The crucial ingredient is the quality of expertise, emphasizing the irreplaceable role of skilled personnel in propelling businesses.

Singapore, the world's largest trans-shipment hub, is launching a skills initiative to prepare its workforce for the future of supply chain management.

At the core of this industry lies a pressing need for adaptability, collaboration, and strategic planning. Critical thinking and problem-solving are paramount, whether it's optimizing routes, managing inventory, or assessing risks. These skills are increasingly vital, particularly in light of the shifting geopolitical landscape.  

Anthony Hayward, our Co-Founder and CEO, sees a growing demand for these traits across sectors, spanning from logistics to mobility. 'Leaders are increasingly valuing a workforce primed for the present-day supply chain, where communication, critical thinking, and the ability to influence stand out,' notes Hayward.

The data is clear: human skills training has a significant impact on business performance. Our data from past 4 years show that in just three months, our learners see improvements in these high-performance skills:
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Communication by 59%
Ability to influence by 71%
Collaboration by 41%

"Hardskill’s Global Business Skills course gave me a strong conviction to review and enhance my current management practices, so we can develop more high-performance agile teams"
- Thai Yong Tan, Managing Director & CEO PaxOcean Holdings, Kuok Group.

Clients such as DB Schenker, Kuok Group, Singapore’s Maritime Port Authority (MPA), the Transport Corp of India, GoTo and YCH Group take a long-term strategic approach in training their teams in these soft—or 'hard-to-teach'—skills.

“Capability building of our human capital is very important. The detailed insights we get from Hardskills are helpful to understand how to strengthen the talent development strategies”
- Renu Bohra, CPO, DB Schenker, India.

The urgency to transform business and remain relevant is accelerating the supply chain industry's need for training solutions that scale and bring fast impact. "To see real change in mindset, behaviours and culture, strategic approaches to training their workforces with mass participation is a must," Hayward added. 

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