Could Google Glass set a new trend in procurement?

Although the concept of wearable-technology has been around for some time, it seems as though this vintage fashion is resurging to a whole new level of popularity. From the original Casio wristwatch-calculators of the 1970’s to today’s gossip over the potential release of an Apple iwatch, we have developed a deep fascination with these functional fashion statements. While these trendy tools help simplify our lives, what will the next big innovation offer?

In recent weeks, Google has hit international headlines as they release the first few batches of their new Google Glass product. This innovative gadget combines voice technology and face recognition software with a powerful camera to provide customers the most intimate virtual experience yet. Thanks to high speed internet capabilities, wearers of the spectacles will enjoy real-time access to a whole plethora of information, connecting the real world to the web and beyond.

At present, the actual features on Google Glass are limited to a small selection of functions. However, as businesses continue to invest huge amounts of resources into the development of new apps, in the future, Google Glass could become a valuable tool in various industries ranging from health care to national security. The possibilities for this latest technology seem endless as Google Glass revolutionizes how data impacts our everyday lives.

The supply chain is one area which could enjoy some interesting benefits from Google Glass. In a recent blog entry we looked at how social media platforms such as Sourcemap are creating transparency across the supply chain. However, imagine if just by looking at a product, you could search a multitude of information sources to find out exactly where each component originated from, item availability and even competitor alternatives. Google Glass enables instant access to a vast array of data and then presents the relevant information right before your very eyes.

As consumers become more knowledgeable, there may be a greater focus on how global supply chains impact both the environment and local communities. As a result customers may begin to approach ethical and moral issues associated to the supply chain with greater scrutiny. For example, practices such as fair trade and sustainable sourcing could gain ground as customers become immediately aware of the devastating consequences of unethical supply chain practices.

However, customers are not the only ones who could enjoy the benefits of Google Glass as the technology promises to be equally revolutionary for businesses. Many industries have already realized how mobile technologies can provide huge strategic advantage in logistics tasks such as stock taking and picking. However, with Google Glass’ wireless connectivity and vast array of additional functionalities, the gadget could well become the most powerful supply chain tool yet.

While it could take some time before the full range of benefits of Google Glass become clear, this gadget could cause a real shake-up in how we go about our day to day lives. Over the coming months it will be interesting to follow how applications and additional functionalities develop. But until then, we will just have to wait and see.

And now a question for you: Do you see potential for Google Glass in the fields of supply chain management and procurement?