This final peer-to-peer discussion of this program spans two weeks. This week, in Module Nine, you will post your initial response, while next week, in Module Ten, you will respond to two other learners posts. This allows you additional time to make your initial post strong, robust, and well supported. You will complete both parts of this discussion in the Module Ten discussion board thread titled The Fourth Industrial Revolution.

Todays world of business is significantly impacted by technological advances. This blurring of boundaries between the physical, digital, and biological world is referred to as the Fourth Industrial Revolution (IR). Advances in artificial intelligence (AI), robotics, the internet of things (IoT), 3D printing, genetic engineering, quantum computing, and other technologies impact the way work gets done, how products are produced, and how companies achieve their objectives. Regardless of the companys size, age, or industry, advances in technology such as artificial intelligence are making their way into the daily practices of companies, and companies must consider the implications of the Fourth IR when developing strategic plans.

Consider the role these advances can play in UPS's strategic planning. Then, compose your initial post by addressing the following guidelines:

• Provide a brief overview of UPS; where is it headquartered, and what are the services or products it provides?
• Pick an aspect of the Fourth IR (advances in artificial intelligence, robotics, the internet of things, 3D printing, genetic engineering, quantum computing, or another technology).
  • How could this impact a companys strategic planning?
  • Specifically, how could this aspect play a role in the strategic planning for UPS?
  • Within UPS, what are two dangers of this aspect of the Fourth IR?