The Impact of Technology in Logistics – 2023 Edition

by | Jan 10, 2023 | Logistics, Logistics Strategy

 

Mark Dienesch
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    2023 is set to be a huge year for technology in logistics and supply chain management.

    Thanks to advances in the secure cloud, robotics and artificial intelligence, technologies, businesses have increased investments in the evaluation and deployment of the various platforms to manage operations more efficiently and cost-effectively.

    Artificial Intelligence (AI) will play a key role in logistics, enabling companies to gain new insights from large data sets and create automated systems for predictive analysis. This helps identify trends earlier, faster and with more accuracy leading to more effective decision-making capabilities.

    This not only helps us recognize trends more quickly but also increases the accuracy of decision making.

    It’s important to note that none of these technologies are easily enabled at scale without secure cloud technologies. The secure cloud has revolutionized the way businesses collaborate worldwide.

    By hosting critical platforms on the cloud, we can enhance security while ensuring smooth synchronization across multiple systems. Moreover, optimizing every aspect of the supply chain management process without having to manage physical servers or hardware is not only a cost savings, but also boosts overall efficiency.

    Robotics, machine learning and artificial intelligence will play an increasingly important role in warehouse automation as well as last-mile delivery throughout 2023 and beyond. These technologies have already proven themselves capable of streamlining tasks such as picking and packing, sortation of goods, and enhanced visibility which frees up our team and labour resources for higher value work.

    It’s evident that technology will continue to play an integral part in transforming the field of logistics and supply chain management, as such we are focused on understanding the scalability and direct positive impact this can have on businesses throughout the year.

    Empowering our Teams with Advanced Technologies

    Overall, the emergence of robotics and automation has had a transformative effect on the logistics industry, allowing businesses to boost efficiency while improving costs. Despite the growing prevalence of automation, human capital (our teams) remains an integral part of the 3PL logistics world – and new technologies are being implemented to make the labour pool better and more efficient.

    When it comes to 3PL logistics operations, customer service will continue to be paramount. There will always be a need for well-trained account management teams. Technology can help by automating mundane tasks like order processing or data entry freeing up teams so that they can focus on managing customers more effectively.

    In our facilities, robotics technologies are increasingly being used for activities like material handling and sortation of goods. This gives warehouse operators greater control over supply chain processes and helps ensure speed and accuracy when it comes to picking orders.

    Robotics have also found applications in streamlining order fulfillment processes. Again, it’s important to keep in mind that robots merely complement the labour force rather than replace it – ultimately resulting in increased accuracy and productivity without compromising safety standards.

    Automation may ease some responsibilities but it can’t replace emotional intelligence or creativity when it comes to product innovation or customer engagement – something only people can provide.

    This means that while robotics may be seen as relatively disruptive technology within the 3PL space, its presence is actually intended not just to reduce costs but also improve employee performance and satisfaction levels across the industry as a whole. Automation should therefore be viewed more as an enabler than a job destroyer; providing new opportunities for employees to take advantage of their skills and experience in strategic roles that were never available before now thanks to advances in technology.

    With these developments comes immense potential – not only increased efficiency but also improved safety and convenience – that we all need to take advantage of if we want to stay ahead of the rapidly moving technology curve.

    Advanced technologies ease some responsibilities but ultimately can’t replace creativity or emotional intelligence for product innovation or customer engagement – something only people can provide. Automation should be regarded as an enabler, providing scope for new strategic roles not available before now thanks to these incredible advancements in technology.

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