The entire logistics industry has been slower than many others to adapt to the digital age. But it’s now essential for warehousing and distribution operations to embrace both digitization and better data practices. Meeting consumer expectations for same-day, or rapid, shipping will not be possible without data-driven processes. Take the case of the latest, in-demand smartphone that is a must-have for customers across the country who (a) want it and (b) expect it today, or at worst tomorrow. Without data-led warehouse management systems in place, it will be impossible to understand, in real-time inventory levels, or to manage rapid and complex distribution routes, track phones in transit and make critical adjustments to avoid delays and disruption. Transitioning to these kinds of data-optimized warehousing models can also provide predictive modeling for greater efficiencies as your business matures and scales.
Remember this, warehousing and logistics are the final, crucial touch point before the customer. Companies must continue to harvest data points at this executional level not only to increase operation throughput but also to truly understand any last touch changes that could improve the customer experience. Data collation and analysis will continue to play an increasingly essential role as supply chains mature, too. It will also be central to successful automation, AI and machine learning initiatives necessary for improving efficiency, reducing labor and minimizing transportation for sustainability.