Hi there, I’m Bethany Smith, CIO at Global Scoops, and if you had told me ten years ago that I’d be using AI, IoT, and blockchain to make better ice cream, I probably would have laughed. But here we are. At Global Scoops, we’ve always believed that innovation isn’t just about new flavors – it’s about how we bring those flavors to life, sustainably and efficiently. And technology has become our not-so-secret ingredient.

From Vanilla Code to Full-Stack Sundaes

When I first joined Global Scoops, our digital infrastructure was… let’s just say, more rocky road than smooth vanilla. We had siloed systems, manual processes, and very little visibility across our global operations. Fast forward to today, and we’ve transformed our tech stack into a unified, cloud-based ecosystem that connects everything from our ingredient sourcing to our customer feedback loops.

One of the biggest game-changers has been our adoption of ServiceNow. It started as a way to streamline IT service management, but quickly evolved into a platform for enterprise-wide transformation. We now use it to manage workflows across HR, procurement, facilities, and even R&D. The beauty of ServiceNow is that it gives us a single source of truth and a flexible foundation to build on as our needs evolve.

We now use ServiceNow to manage workflows across HR, procurement, facilities, and even R&D

Sweet Data, Smarter Decisions

Ice cream might be a treat, but making it is serious business. We rely heavily on data to ensure consistency, quality, and sustainability. Our production lines are equipped with IoT sensors that monitor temperature, humidity, and other critical variables in real time. This data feeds into our analytics engine, helping us make micro-adjustments that reduce waste and improve product texture.

But the real magic happens when we combine operational data with consumer insights. Using AI, we analyze social media trends, sales data, and customer reviews to predict what flavors will be hot next season. That’s how we knew to jump on the plant-based trend early – and why our coconut-lime sorbet became a summer bestseller.

Using AI, we analyze social media trends, sales data, and customer reviews to predict what flavors will be hot next season

Cross-Functional Collaboration: The Cherry on Top

One of the most rewarding parts of our digital journey has been watching different departments come together in new ways. Our IT and R&D teams now work hand-in-hand, using augmented reality to simulate new product designs and packaging before we ever touch a physical prototype. This not only speeds up development but also reduces material waste.

One standout project was our Smart Scoop initiative. We used machine learning to optimize our mixing and freezing processes, ensuring that our ice cream maintains its texture even in less-than-ideal storage conditions. The result? A 15 percent reduction in waste and a product that customers love, no matter where they buy it.

The Smart Scoop initiative led to a 15 percent reduction in waste and a product that customers love

Supply Chain: Scooping Smarter, Not Harder

Managing a global supply chain for perishable goods is no small feat. We use digital twins – virtual models of our distribution networks – to simulate everything from weather disruptions to shipping delays. This allows us to proactively reroute shipments and avoid spoilage. Combined with real-time inventory tracking and predictive analytics, we’ve built a supply chain that’s both agile and resilient.

We’re also piloting blockchain to enhance ingredient traceability. Imagine scanning a pint of ice cream and seeing exactly where the vanilla beans were grown, when they were harvested, and how they got to your freezer. That level of transparency builds trust and ensures we’re holding ourselves and our partners to the highest sustainability standards.

People First, Always

All this tech is exciting, but it wouldn’t mean much without the people behind it. Digital transformation is as much about culture as it is about code. We’ve invested heavily in training, not just for our IT staff but for everyone across the company. From factory floor workers to flavor scientists, we want everyone to feel empowered by technology, not intimidated by it.

We’ve also made cybersecurity a cornerstone of our strategy. With operations across multiple continents and increasing reliance on cloud platforms, we’ve implemented multi-layered security protocols, regular audits, and ongoing education to keep our data – and our customers – safe.

Looking Ahead: The Future is Flavorful

What’s next? We’re exploring edge computing to process IoT data faster and more efficiently. We’re also looking into quantum computing for complex supply chain optimization and VR for immersive employee training. The possibilities are endless, and we’re just getting started.

To any traditional companies out there wondering if digital transformation is worth it – it is. Start small, stay focused on your goals, and never underestimate the power of cross-functional collaboration. The journey might be challenging, but the rewards – for your business, your customers, and the planet – are absolutely worth it.

Thanks for reading, and here’s to the sweet spot where innovation meets indulgence.