Automation doesn’t fail because of technology - it fails because of data quality, unclear processes, and misaligned teams.In this episode, Michael Ostroumov sits down with Rosana Fuentes (Implementation Consultant at Baxter Planning) to unpack the reality of supply chain automation beyond the sales pitch. They discuss the tension between speed and accuracy, and why implementing forecasting software often reveals deep operational cracks before it fixes them.KEY TOPICS COVERED:The Data Trap: Why automation amplifies bad data instead of fixing it.Manual vs. Automated: Where to draw the line in inventory planning.Change Management: How to handle resistance from logistics teams.TIMESTAMPS:(00:00) - Introduction(01:57) - Rosana's path into supply chain(03:24) - What "automation" really means today(07:26) - Automated planning vs manual control(09:54) - Managing volatility and demand uncertainty(13:34) - Starting automation with low maturity systems(16:05) - Data accuracy & process documentation(21:58) - Leadership expectations vs operational reality(24:48) - Integrating legacy systems(29:24) - Balancing speed, stability, and accountability(31:11) - The one problem Rosana would solve instantlyWatch this episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ChainReactionFLOX CONNECT WITH THE HOST & GUEST:Michael Ostroumov - https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelostroumov/ Rosana Fuentes - https://www.linkedin.com/in/rosana-fuentes-albaladejo-/CONNECT WITH FLOX:Website: https://www.flox.isLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/flox-logistics-services/Related Service Page: https://www.flox.is/services/marketplace/ ABOUT THIS EPISODE:This conversation dives deep into supply chain management strategies, moving beyond warehouse robotics to discuss the reality of logistics software implementation. We cover essential topics like inventory planning, demand forecasting, and the challenges of digital transformation in legacy industries. Whether you are managing global trade or focused on B2B distribution, this episode offers practical advice on fixing data integrity issues before automating your operations.#ChainReactionPodcast #SupplyChain #Logistics #Automation

Ask this episode

“What did the council decide on item 42?” — answered with the speaker and the moment.