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How Manufacturers and Distributors Can Leverage The Digital Age
Austin, TX—A recent episode of the Driven By DCKAP podcast features Robert C. Wolcott, Co-Founder of The World Innovation Network (TWIN) Global about his new book, “Proximity: How Coming Breakthroughs in Just-in-Time Transform Business, Society, and Daily Life” which explores the radical shifts in production and service delivery driven by AI, 3D printing, and more.
Wolcott also shares his career path into innovation, from early aspirations to his academic role as Adjunct Professor of Innovation at the Kellogg School of Management and the University of Chicago Booth School of Business.
Understanding The Proximity Revolution
Wolcott describes the concept of Proximity, explaining, “…digital pushes the creation of value, all sorts of value: products, services, experiences. Digital pushes the creation of value ever closer to the moment of actual demand and time and space.”
The Future For Manufacturers is Proximate
Noting the difference between digital and physical products, Wolcott describes how technology has helped ensure even physical products can come close to being proximate, with even more potential for the future. He describes it as, “A transformative model where you’re actually producing the product, physical products, co-terminus with the actual demand. You still need the raw materials, so we’ll still have supply chains, but they’ll be closer and closer over time to that raw material space.”
How Companies Can Trigger Growth From Within
Wolcott also shares that businesses can encourage growth from within by posing exploratory questions instead of rigid directives, engaging their best talent, and investing in them. “We have to pose better challenges. The essence of innovation strategy is to have a portfolio of options on the future. It’s just like your financial portfolio. When you face uncertainty, make sure you have portfolio optionality by exploring broadly.
As Robert Wolcott’s discussion on the Driven by DCKAP podcast highlights, the proximity revolution is set to reshape the manufacturing and distribution landscape. By leveraging just-in-time production models and fostering internal innovation, businesses can adapt to rapid technological advancements and remain competitive. Listeners can tune in to the podcast to explore these groundbreaking concepts in depth.
More Information
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About the Driven Podcast
The Driven by DCKAP Podcast is an audio and video show that explores leaders’ stories, digital journeys, and insights on trends in B2B and distribution. The podcast is hosted by Karthik Chidambaram, founder and CEO of DCKAP, who grew the company from a start up to a global team of more than 200 employees. DCKAP earns several trust badges by G2.com, the world’s largest tech software marketplace, including “High Performer Americas” and “Users Most Likely to Recommend.”
About DCKAP
DCKAP is a leader in digital solutions that help distributors systems’ talk to each other. Its technology solutions simplify software integrations, e-commerce, and product information management for B2B companies. DCKAP’s flagship product, DCKAP Integrator, helps distributors and manufacturers to automate data between ERP, e-commerce, and CRM systems. Founded in 2005, DCKAP is a global and distributed team headquartered in Austin, TX. Visit DCKAP at dckap.com or follow on LinkedIn.
About TWIN Global
The World Innovation Network (TWIN) is an invitation-only network that unites leaders from over 30 countries to forge trusted relationships, establish new partnerships, and drive innovation across various sectors. TWIN members are influential decision-makers in business, government, arts, and philanthropy. TWIN offers both in-person and virtual programs, providing access to cutting-edge insights and unique connections that empower members to excel in their professional and personal lives. For more information, visit twinglobal.org.
About Proximity
Robert C. Wolcott and Kaihan Krippendorff provide an indispensable guide to the Proximity revolution, showing how it’s transforming every industry―and our lives. “Proximity: How Coming Breakthroughs in Just-in-Time Transform Business, Society, and Daily Life” offers foresight for leaders and innovators through stories of the people and companies leading the way. Proximity is a playbook for business leaders, investors, and entrepreneurs to win this rapidly emerging game. Order a copy of “Proximity” on Amazon.
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