NTT Data Trials AI Agents for Supply Chain Knowledge Transfer

In an effort to tackle challenges in supply chain management, NTT Data has launched a significant proof-of-concept project aimed at capturing and transferring expertise in the manufacturing sector through AI agents. This initiative, which started in May 2026 in collaboration with Fortience Consulting, seeks to streamline decision-making by making the tacit knowledge of experienced supply chain management (SCM) professionals accessible to those with less experience.

The project is based on the SECI model of knowledge creation, a framework developed by academics Ikujiro Nonaka and Hirotaka Takeuchi. This model highlights the need to convert tacit knowledge—personal, context-specific skills and insights—into explicit knowledge that can be documented and shared. By utilizing this model, NTT Data aims to systematically capture the critical decision-making processes that seasoned SCM professionals use, thereby creating a repository of knowledge that can enhance operational efficiency across the sector.

AI agents will be central to this initiative, designed to replicate human decision-making and learning processes. These agents will help document the intricate details of SCM practices, enabling organizations to train new employees more effectively and reduce the risk of knowledge loss due to workforce turnover. As manufacturing industries increasingly strive to optimize operations and mitigate disruptions, using AI for knowledge transfer offers a timely solution.

The project’s implications go beyond immediate training advantages. By formalizing expertise within SCM, companies can cultivate a culture of continuous improvement, leading to a more agile and responsive supply chain. As NTT Data and Fortience Consulting advance with this pilot, the outcomes could set a standard for similar initiatives across various sectors, potentially transforming how knowledge is managed in complex environments.

Looking forward, the success of NTT Data’s AI agent project may open doors for broader applications of AI in knowledge management. The ability to enhance training, improve decision-making, and preserve critical expertise could be invaluable as industries shift towards more automated and data-driven processes. The synergy between technology and human insight may shape the future of effective supply chain management, providing a blueprint for organizations aiming to excel in an increasingly competitive landscape.