Chapter 10 - Supply chain traceability systems—robust approaches for the digital age

Abstract

Traceability systems play an important role in the digital transformation of the supply chain. This chapter examines the principal issues on the what, why, and how of achieving digital supply chain traceability in relation to data and technology. We consider the overlapping definitions of visibility, traceability, tracking, tracing, and transparency. We highlight factors driving the need to achieve higher levels of traceability, including regulatory demands, business incentives, and customer concerns and preferences. The emergence of global standards related to traceability is noted. The types of information required to successfully track and trace products in a digital supply chain are explained, as well as the technologies applied to collect, follow, and share information, including radio frequency identification, Internet of Things, and blockchain. The challenges around cybersecurity, standards, data quality, integrating new technologies, and potentially competing interests among stakeholders are discussed. We examine the traceability of wood products, which are important globally and raise significant sustainability challenges. The case illustrates how technical solutions can be incorporated into the traceability system to respond to the needs and challenges of stakeholders. Further research is needed on the technical, policy, and business strategy solutions to address common data and technology challenges for effective traceability systems.