The Cost of Waiting: Making AI a Priority in Your Annual Budget

As budget season arrives, discover why now is the critical moment for supply chain leaders to prioritize AI integration in their investment plans.
Nov. 17, 2025

Dr. Joanne Friedman, CEO and co-founder of ReilAI, joins Supply Chain Connect to discuss the urgent need for AI investment in supply chain operations. Dr. Friedman highlights the risks of delaying adoption, the importance of data readiness and governance, and strategic budget planning focused on outcomes rather than tools. She shares practical advice for justifying AI to decision-makers, ensuring compliance and data ownership, and building intelligence into business processes for long-term transformation, concluding that true value comes from integrating AI with clear organizational objectives.

About the Author

Tyler Fussner

Managing Editor - Community Manager | Supply Chain Connect

Tyler Fussner is Managing Editor - Community Manager at Supply Chain Connect, part of the Design & Engineering Group at Endeavor Business Media.

Previously, Fussner served as the Associate Editor for Fleet Maintenance magazine. As part of Endeavor's Commercial Vehicle Group, his work has been published in FleetOwner magazine, as well as Bulk TransporterRefrigerated Transporter, and Trailer-Body Builders.

Fussner's May 2022 print feature 'The dawn of hydrogen trucks' was named the best single technology article in B2B by the judges of the 2022 Folio: Eddie and Ozzie Awards. Fussner was also awarded Silver in the Technical Article category for the Trade Association Business Publications International (TABPI) 2021 Tabbie Awards.

Fussner previously served as Assistant Editor for Endeavor's Transportation Group on the PTEN, Professional Distributor, and VehicleServicePros.com brands.

Fussner studied professional writing and publishing at the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater. He has experience in shop operations, is a Michelin Certified Tire Technician, and a Michelin Certified Tire Salesperson.

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