Value Chain Hackers: Integrated 8-Step Plan & VCH-Infra Tools

Christiaan Verhoef

2025-01-27

Welcome to Value Chain Hackers

Empowering Supply Chains Through Collaboration and Innovation

Value Chain Hackers Logo

“Together, we create scalable, sustainable solutions to wicked supply chain challenges.”

About Value Chain Hackers

  • Mission and Vision

    • To bridge the gap between education, industry, and academia by providing a platform that facilitates the development of sustainable and scalable supply chain solutions.
    • To equip students with practical skills and real-world experience in problem-solving, data analysis, and innovative thinking.
    • To empower students and professionals to address complex supply chain challenges by fostering a community of change makers and providing structured frameworks for impact projects.

    Overview of Initiatives

    Who are we?

    • Value Chain Hackers is an innovative incubator dedicated to transforming supply chains through collaborative problem-solving and cutting-edge solutions.

Introduction: Setting the Stage

Purpose of the Lab

  • Mission: Tackle messy, wicked supply chain challenges with solutions that don’t just work—they scale.
  • Vision: Be the bridge between academia, industry, and education to deliver real, measurable impact.

Why It Matters

  • Empowering Change:
    • The tools we use shape how we collaborate, innovate, and grow.
    • Misaligned tools? They’re costly mistakes that derail progress.
  • Collaborative Impact:
    • When we align our tools and processes, trust grows, results multiply, and everyone wins.

Today’s Focus

  1. Overview of the current tools & plan
    • What have we selected, how will we apply it?
  2. A.I and other support tools overview
    • Which Support tools are there and how could we use them.
  3. Shape the Future: Workshops & Training
    • What Training will we be giving them?

Note

“This is about more than tools—it’s about creating a system that fuels our ambitions and delivers the impact we’ve promised.”

Current ++: The Smart Upgrade 🚀

What’s in the Pack?

  • Collaboration: Microsoft Teams, Canva Whiteboard, Canva Prototyping
    • Improved visual brainstorming and structured collaboration.
    • Trough the Tonomy Foundation, we have a Pro-License on Canva with which we can provide the students with their own small team.
    • CANVA IDEATIONBOARD
  • Data Collection: Google Scholar, Excel, OneDrive: And other sources.
    • Optional: See A.I tools
  • Visualization: Canva Pro
    • Elevates presentations with advanced design tools, templates, and AI-driven features.
    • We can give each team their own dedicated team space.
  • Task Management (Optional): Trello, or Focalboard;
    • Lightweight task tracking for teams that are more serious and want more structure.
  • File Sharing: OneDrive
    • Familiar and integrated with Microsoft ecosystem, which the students will know.
    • Optional: Github
  • AI Support: OpenWebUI, Ollama
    • Entry-level AI for brainstorming and lightweight automation.

Key Benefits

  • Problem: Communication is fragmented across email and Teams.
  • Solution: Leverage tools like Canva Pro, Mural, and Excalidraw to streamline workflows and enhance collaboration.

Why it Works:

  1. Minimal Disruption: Builds on tools already familiar to the team.
  2. Quick Wins: Tools like Canva Pro integrate seamlessly, requiring minimal learning.
  3. Boosted Creativity: Fosters engagement and innovation with intuitive design tools.
  4. Professional Design: Canva Pro enables high-quality visuals without advanced design skills.

Problem: Students struggle to locate reliable data sources.
Solution 1: Provide pre-vetted sources like Google Scholar and curated datasets upfront. Quick-wins: 1. Create a list of all possible data sources for them to look at like, google scholar; 2. Create folder on the onedrive and dumb mass PDF’s and other data for them to play with, into that folder.
Solution 2 (Advanced): Use AI tools such as Crawl AI and SearxNG to automate data collection.

Limitations of OneDrive

  • OneDrive’s folder system lacks advanced integration and relational analysis capabilities.
  • Without centralized data organization, research workflows are prone to inconsistency and inefficiency.
  • Problem: Research processes are inconsistent and scattered.
  • Solution: Centralizing research in Excel and OneDrive ensures better organization and accessibility.

Solution Notes

  • Improved file structures and pre-organized data availability will partially address workflow challenges.
  • Advanced tools like Neo4j and centralized databases are essential for solving relational and integration issues in the future.
  • Problem: Static, uninspiring presentations rely on PowerPoint.
  • Solution: Switch to Canva Pro for dynamic, engaging visuals.

Why Canva Pro?:
- Magic Resize: Adapts designs for multiple platforms instantly.
- AI-Powered Tools: Features like Magic Write and Dream Lab generate text and visuals automatically.
- Professional Templates: Consistent branding with the Brand Kit feature.
- Background Remover: Refines images for polished, professional visuals.
- Shared Storage: Collaborate effectively with unlimited folders and up to 1TB of storage.

Problem: Limited automation and reliance on external AI.

Solution: Focus on making A.I Supportive but not leading

  • Kotaemon (Tested, works): Detects anomalies and generates actionable insights from real-time data for supply chain evaluations.
  • Chainforge(local only, but properly tested!): Automates AI mapping to uncover hidden relationships in workflows and supply chain data.
  • SearxNG(Operational, Fully Functional): Aggregates search results from multiple engines while respecting privacy for diverse research insights.
  • OpenWebUI(Operational, Fully Functional): Local AI assistant for brainstorming, qualitative analysis, and secure conversational support.
  • Flowise:(Tested, Not in production) Simplifies data exploration with a conversational AI interface for intuitive natural language queries.
  • Crawl A.I (Tested, not operational): Automates large-scale web scraping to gather research data quickly and efficiently.

AI and Support Tools Overview

Essential Overview

Current Challenges: Manual workflows, scattered communication, and inefficiencies hinder progress, A.i tooling is found to be unreliable!

  • Opportunity: We use tokens for the Big A.I models to temporary leverage insanely big infrastructure
  • Opportunity: We use many different models and different tools to show the difference between those models, to demonstrate the power of using smaller models
  • Opportunity: We use local hardware, to intergrate the A.I directly into the researcher’s computers;
    • A local deployable A.I set has been developed and is being expanded: It works with n8n, quant, ollama in one

Core AI Tools

  • Kotaemon: Interact with documents seamlessly using Retrieval-Augmented Generation (RAG) technology.

  • ChainForge: Evaluate and compare LLM responses for robust prompt engineering and model selection.

  • Neo4j: Map supply chain networks and visualize relationships.

  • OpenWebUI: Local interface for secure interaction with large language models (LLMs).

  • Flowise: Graphical AI workflow builder for creating intuitive AI applications.

  • Crawl A.I: Automates web scraping to collect large-scale research data.

Tool Purpose Game-Changing Benefit
Kotaemon Document interaction via RAG Makes document exploration intuitive with LLM integrations.
ChainForge Prompt engineering platform Tests and compares prompts across multiple LLMs for robustness.
Neo4j Graph-based visualization Maps supply chain relationships for better scalability.
OpenWebUI Local AI assistant Reduces reliance on external LLMs while ensuring privacy.
BigAgi Workflow automation Automates repetitive processes and accelerates insights.
Ollama Local inference engine Lightweight AI experimentation with high security.
Flowise AI workflow builder Simplifies AI application creation with drag-and-drop nodes.
Crawl A.I Web crawling Collects and organizes large datasets for research purposes.

Tool Purpose How It Assists AI Tools
n8n Workflow automation Automates data flows into and out of AI tools.
Qdrant Vector database Supports embeddings and similarity search for AI pipelines.
Grafana Real-time dashboards Visualizes metrics from AI outputs in actionable formats.
SearxNG Privacy-focused search engine Enhances data collection for AI tools without compromising privacy.

Shape the Future: Workshops & Training

Workshop and Training Overview

  • Create better work, faster by giving students access to these workshops.
  • Focused on learning skills, over doing research.
  • Focused on delivering actionable knowledge for immediate impact in projects.
  • Focused on standalone use-cases due to ecosystem limitations.

Core Training Focus Areas

  1. Prompt Engineering:
    • Crafting effective prompts for OpenWebUI and AI tools.
    • Real-world applications of AI for supply chain problem-solving.
  2. Better Presentations:
    • Leveraging Canva Pro for dynamic, visually engaging presentations.
    • Techniques to integrate storytelling with visuals for stakeholder alignment.
  3. Using OpenWebUI:
    • Hands-on experience to explore local AI capabilities.
    • Learn to use OpenWebUI for brainstorming, FAQs, and secure tasks.

Outcomes

  • Confidence in using A.I tools
  • Practical AI skills without overwhelming participants with new workflows.

Workshop Modules and Formats

Focus Details
Tools OpenWebUI, ChainForge
Objective Learn to design effective AI prompts.
Format Hands-on practice with guided examples.
Outcome Craft precise prompts to unlock AI insights.

Focus Details
Tools OpenWebUI
Objective Explore local AI for secure brainstorming.
Format Interactive session with real-world use cases.
Outcome Understand how to integrate OpenWebUI into workflows.

Using How to speak so that others will listen

Focus Details
Tools Canva Pro
Objective Create visually compelling, stakeholder-ready presentations.
Format Guided session with hands-on exercises.
Outcome Produce professional presentations that enhance engagement.

Step 1: Problem Identification, Stakeholder, and Supply Chain Mapping

Process Overview

  • Purpose: Establish a clear understanding of the supply chain problem and the stakeholders involved.
  • Approach: Structured execution of tasks to ensure clarity, alignment, and actionable insights.
  • Focus: Use tools and methods that balance simplicity with impactful results.

Key Tasks

  1. Define the Problem.
  2. Map Stakeholders and their Influence.
  3. Gather Diverse Perspectives.
  4. Apply Theory U principles for co-creation.

Expected Outcomes

  • Clear and actionable problem statement.
  • Comprehensive stakeholder map.
  • Aligned vision among team members.

Task Execution: Step 1

Execution Plan: Host brainstorming sessions to outline the challenges and goals. This is done trough a mind map; Allthough there are MANY tools like, Draw.Io, Excilgraph, and many others, CANVA actually has one build in too, and since we can use canva, we should use that one since it will enable teams to work faster and not have to learn new tools. We can use the ideation Bot in OpenWebUI to help make problem statements better and faster.

  • A mind map tool has been tested and is availble already for use. The Canvas

Tools: - Canva: Collaborative whiteboarding for capturing team input visually. - OpenWebUI: Use AI to generate and refine problem statements.

OpenWebUI Models

There has been significant progress made on both the usage of this tool and the models that reside in this tool! The first time that you’ve used this the result was underwhelming, you should give it another go! Its much improved.


Identify key stakeholders and their influence on the problem. Visualize relationships, dependencies, and power structures. CANVA: Use the Stakeholder mapping template

Other Tools: - Neo4j: Create graph-based maps for detailed stakeholder relationships. - PowerPoint: Build simpler static stakeholder diagrams. - Excalidraw: Quick and interactive stakeholder sketching. - Obsidian: Map relationships between Stakeholders in a Markdown format

Step 2: Data Collection and Preliminary Analysis

Process Overview

  • Purpose: Gather and analyze both quantitative and qualitative supply chain data.
  • Approach: Use a combination of manual and automated tools for efficient data collection and analysis.
  • Focus: Simplify workflows while leveraging AI to identify patterns and anomalies.

Key Tasks

  1. Determine Target Product or company

  2. Conduct Stakeholder Interviews and Surveys.

  3. Analyze Data for Trends and Pain Points.

  4. Reflect and Align Insights.

Expected Outcomes

  • Comprehensive understanding of supply chain dynamics.
  • Identification of pain points and improvement opportunities.
  • Insights connected to stakeholder input for actionable results.

Task Execution: Step 2

Execution Plan: - Identify relevant data sources (financial, operational, and regulatory). - Set up tools for collecting and organizing data.

Tools: - Crawl AI: Automates large-scale web scraping to gather relevant research data. - Google Scholar: Access academic papers and reports. - Excel + OneDrive: Organize raw data for initial exploration.


Execution Plan: - Design and distribute surveys to gather qualitative data. - Conduct structured interviews to collect stakeholder insights.

Tools: - Kotaemon: Analyzes stakeholder feedback for key themes and anomalies. - Google Forms: Simple survey creation and distribution. - OpenWebUI: Use conversational AI for brainstorming interview questions.


Execution Plan: - Examine data for recurring patterns and key insights. - Use visualization tools to make results accessible.

Tools: - JupyterHub: Collaborative environment for in-depth data analysis. - Neo4j: Visualize complex relationships in supply chain data. - Canva Pro: Create visually engaging presentations of trends and insights.


Execution Plan: - Host team discussions to review findings and align on key insights. - Prepare summaries for stakeholder feedback.

Tools: - Mattermost: Facilitate real-time discussions and collaboration. - Quarto: Create detailed, reproducible reports summarizing findings. - Canva Pro: Design polished summaries for stakeholder presentations.

Step 3: Solution Ideation and Prioritization

Process Overview

  • Purpose: Generate, refine, and prioritize innovative solutions to supply chain challenges.
  • Approach: Use collaborative tools and AI-driven insights to facilitate brainstorming and decision-making.
  • Focus: Encourage creativity while ensuring alignment with stakeholder needs.

Key Tasks

  1. Facilitate Brainstorming Sessions.
  2. Visualize and Organize Solutions.
  3. Use AI for Validation and Refinement.
  4. Prioritize Solutions Based on Feasibility and Impact.

Expected Outcomes

  • A diverse set of innovative ideas.
  • Prioritized solutions ready for stakeholder validation.
  • Enhanced collaboration and creative problem-solving skills.

Task Execution: Step 3

Execution Plan: - Host interactive workshops to generate ideas collaboratively. - Encourage “out-of-the-box” thinking and solution exploration.

Tools: - Mural + Excalidraw: Collaborative whiteboarding for capturing ideas visually. - Mattermost: Real-time communication to align teams during brainstorming. - OpenWebUI: Use conversational AI to spark ideas and simulate perspectives.


Execution Plan: - Categorize solutions based on stakeholder needs and objectives. - Develop visual frameworks to organize and communicate ideas.

Tools: - Canva Pro: Design visually compelling solution boards. - Neo4j: Map relationships and dependencies between solutions. - Draw.io: Create process diagrams and solution workflows.


Execution Plan: - Test solutions against different scenarios using AI tools. - Refine solutions based on AI-driven feedback and insights.

Tools: - ChainForge: Validate prompts and solution viability across AI models. - BigAgi: Automate scenario simulations and generate actionable insights. - OpenWebUI: Refine brainstorming outputs with conversational AI feedback.


Execution Plan: - Score solutions on feasibility, stakeholder alignment, and potential impact. - Host prioritization workshops to align on the final list of solutions.

Tools: - FocalBoard: Organize and prioritize tasks with Kanban boards. - Excel + OneDrive: Create scoring matrices for decision-making. - Canva Pro: Present prioritized solutions visually for stakeholder review.

Step 4: Validation Through Stakeholder Feedback

Process Overview

  • Purpose: Engage stakeholders to test and validate proposed solutions.
  • Approach: Use structured sessions and advanced tools to capture feedback, ensure alignment, and improve solutions iteratively.
  • Focus: Build trust and refine ideas by prioritizing stakeholder input and collaboration.

Key Tasks

  1. Develop MVPs (Minimum Viable Products).
  2. Conduct Feedback Sessions.
  3. Analyze Stakeholder Input.
  4. Iterate and Refine Solutions.

Expected Outcomes

  • Stakeholder-validated solutions ready for development.
  • Key feedback themes captured and integrated.
  • Stronger buy-in from stakeholders for implementation.

Task Execution: Step 4

Execution Plan: - Create simplified prototypes that showcase essential features of proposed solutions. - Use visuals and data to communicate impact.

Tools: - Canva Pro: Design polished, visually compelling MVP presentations. - JupyterHub: Generate data-driven insights and mock dashboards. - Neo4j: Visualize complex stakeholder relationships or process flows.


Execution Plan: - Schedule and facilitate structured sessions for presenting MVPs. - Use interactive platforms to keep stakeholders engaged and capture live feedback.

Tools: - Work Adventure: Create immersive, virtual environments for discussions. - Mattermost: Coordinate session logistics and enable follow-ups. - Canva Pro: Deliver dynamic, professional presentations.


Execution Plan: - Collect qualitative and quantitative feedback through surveys, Q&A, and AI-supported analysis. - Identify recurring themes and actionable insights.

Tools: - Kotaemon: Analyze feedback to detect anomalies and trends. - Google Forms: Gather structured feedback quickly and efficiently. - OpenWebUI: Summarize input and explore follow-up ideas with conversational AI.


Execution Plan: - Revisit MVPs based on stakeholder input. - Use task management tools to track refinements and ensure alignment with feedback.

Tools: - ChainForge: Refine AI-driven aspects of the solution (e.g., prompts or models). - FocalBoard: Track revisions and prioritize tasks for refinement. - Quarto: Create reproducible reports detailing updates and iterations.

Step 5: Proposal Development and Presentation

Process Overview

  • Purpose: Develop detailed implementation plans and present proposals tailored to stakeholder needs.
  • Approach: Combine data-driven insights, structured reporting, and professional visuals for maximum impact.
  • Focus: Ensure proposals are actionable, aligned with stakeholder priorities, and visually compelling.

Key Tasks

  1. Develop Detailed Implementation Plans.
  2. Create Comprehensive Proposals.
  3. Design and Deliver Visual Presentations.
  4. Collaborate and Finalize Proposals.

Expected Outcomes

  • Well-structured proposals ready for execution.
  • Clear, persuasive presentations tailored to stakeholder priorities.
  • Stakeholder alignment on implementation strategies.

Task Execution: Step 5

Execution Plan: - Define milestones, resources, and timelines for proposed solutions. - Use collaborative tools to align teams on implementation details.

Tools: - FocalBoard: Track milestones and task dependencies collaboratively. - JupyterHub: Analyze data to support planning and decision-making. - Quarto: Document detailed implementation plans in structured reports.


Execution Plan: - Synthesize data and insights into a clear, cohesive proposal. - Highlight key findings and actionable recommendations.

Tools: - Quarto: Develop reproducible, data-driven proposals. - Google Docs: Enable real-time collaboration and review. - Canva Pro: Add polished visuals and professional design elements.


Execution Plan: - Design dynamic, stakeholder-friendly presentations. - Incorporate storytelling techniques to make data engaging.

Tools: - Canva Pro: Create visually engaging slides for storytelling. - Grafana: Embed live dashboards for real-time KPI visualization. - PowerPoint: Use familiar presentation tools for static elements.


Execution Plan: - Host review sessions to incorporate feedback into proposals. - Use version control tools to track changes and ensure alignment.

Tools: - Mattermost: Facilitate discussions and collect feedback. - GitHub: Manage version control for proposal documents. - Quarto: Publish final, polished versions of proposals.

Step 6: Community Engagement and Commitment-Building

Process Overview

  • Purpose: Foster community awareness, build partnerships, and secure commitment from stakeholders.
  • Approach: Organize events, share progress, and create materials to engage stakeholders effectively.
  • Focus: Strengthen relationships, promote transparency, and align stakeholders with project goals.

Key Tasks

  1. Organize Community Events.
  2. Develop and Share Educational Materials.
  3. Foster Partnerships and Secure Commitments.
  4. Collect and Incorporate Feedback.

Expected Outcomes

  • Increased community support and stakeholder buy-in.
  • Partnerships established for project growth.
  • Disseminated project goals and benefits widely.

Task Execution: Step 6

Execution Plan: - Host events to showcase project progress and engage stakeholders. - Use both in-person and virtual formats to maximize reach.

Tools: - Work Adventure: Create interactive, virtual event spaces. - Mattermost: Coordinate event details and communication. - Canva Pro: Design event flyers, invitations, and visual materials.


Execution Plan: - Create content that highlights the project’s social and environmental impact. - Distribute materials through various channels to reach stakeholders.

Tools: - Canva Pro: Design visually compelling infographics and brochures. - Nextcloud: Securely share materials with stakeholders. - Quarto: Develop structured reports and detailed whitepapers.


Execution Plan: - Engage with industry leaders, educators, and community members. - Present clear value propositions to encourage ongoing involvement.

Tools: - Neo4j: Map relationships and identify potential partnership opportunities. - JupyterHub: Analyze data to support partnership discussions. - Google Forms: Collect feedback and gauge interest in collaboration.


Execution Plan: - Create feedback loops to understand community and stakeholder needs. - Use insights to adjust strategies and strengthen engagement.

Tools: - Kotaemon: Analyze qualitative feedback for key insights. - OpenWebUI: Use conversational AI for brainstorming actionable improvements. - FocalBoard: Track feedback integration and adjustments.

Step 8: Scaling and Broader Implementation

Process Overview

  • Purpose: Expand successful solutions to a larger scope and prepare for widespread adoption.
  • Approach: Use strategic planning, partnerships, and advanced tools to scale effectively.
  • Focus: Ensure scalability, sustainability, and alignment with organizational goals.

Key Tasks

  1. Identify Partners and Resources.
  2. Develop a Strategic Scaling Roadmap.
  3. Document Lessons Learned and Frameworks.
  4. Engage Stakeholders for Long-Term Commitment.

Expected Outcomes

  • Strategic plan for scalable and sustainable solutions.
  • Secured partnerships and resources for expansion.
  • Frameworks for replicating solutions in diverse contexts.
  • Strong stakeholder commitment to long-term success.

Task Execution: Step 8

Execution Plan: - Identify potential collaborators, funding sources, and resources required for scaling. - Establish partnerships with industry leaders and community stakeholders.

Tools: - Neo4j: Map partnerships and resource dependencies. - Mattermost: Coordinate outreach and collaboration efforts. - JupyterHub: Analyze data to support partnership discussions.


Execution Plan: - Outline steps to address logistical, operational, and regulatory challenges. - Use data-driven insights to inform scaling strategies.

Tools: - Quarto: Create detailed, reproducible reports on scaling strategies. - FocalBoard: Plan and manage tasks for roadmap execution. - Grafana: Monitor metrics during scaling and identify areas for adjustment.


Execution Plan: - Consolidate insights from pilot phases into a structured framework. - Develop reusable templates for replicating solutions in new contexts.

Tools: - Quarto: Document frameworks and lessons learned for future reference. - Nextcloud: Share templates and documentation securely. - Canva Pro: Create visually engaging frameworks for training and onboarding.


Execution Plan: - Build trust with stakeholders by demonstrating success stories and data-driven results. - Host events or meetings to secure commitments for long-term involvement.

Tools: - Work Adventure: Host immersive, interactive stakeholder meetings. - Kotaemon: Analyze stakeholder feedback for alignment. - Canva Pro: Create impactful presentations that communicate scaling success.

AI and Data Tools

Tool Name Description GitHub Link
Hugging Face Natural language processing and AI model hub. Hugging Face GitHub
LangChain Framework for building applications with language models. LangChain GitHub
Stable Diffusion AI-powered image generation. Stable Diffusion GitHub
Whisper Automatic speech recognition system by OpenAI. Whisper GitHub
Haystack NLP framework for building search systems. Haystack GitHub
FastAPI Web framework for building APIs with Python. FastAPI GitHub
Pandas AI Enhances Pandas with AI capabilities. Pandas AI GitHub
LlamaIndex Tool for integrating knowledge bases with language models. LlamaIndex GitHub
DeepSpeed Optimize and train deep learning models at scale. DeepSpeed GitHub
AutoGPT Autonomous AI agent powered by GPT models. AutoGPT GitHub
Prompt Toolkit Library for building interactive command-line applications. Prompt Toolkit GitHub
Diffusers Library for training and using diffusion models. Diffusers GitHub
BERT Transformer-based language model. BERT GitHub
Transformers Library for working with pre-trained transformer models. Transformers GitHub
Cortex Platform for deploying machine learning models. Cortex GitHub
Dash Framework for building web-based analytical applications. Dash GitHub
Streamlit Create custom machine learning apps quickly. Streamlit GitHub
Ray Framework for scaling AI and machine learning workflows. Ray GitHub
Metaflow Machine learning workflow management tool. Metaflow GitHub
PyCaret Low-code machine learning library. PyCaret GitHub