Technological Innovation for the Logistics Sector

The National Council of Executives in Logistics and Supply Chains (CONALOG) elected Sandra Aragonez Bolaños as its new President, reported the council’s website.

Aragonez has 14 years of experience in supply network management, leading and executing major transformations and performance improvement programs in the supply network of various industries. She is also the first woman to be President of CONALOG. Aragonez is a firm believer in optimization for cost reduction, as she discussed in an interview with T21.

Optimization in logistics is increasingly important in the current market as has been highlighted by the KPMG Global’s report “Perspectives of Senior Management in Mexico 2021,” which indicates that 87 percent of the managers surveyed believe that the adoption of new technologies has become essential due to the pandemic.

CONALOG explains that technological innovation can be implemented through different technological tools, including:

1. Artificial Intelligence

Artificial intelligence in logistics can support the retail and e-commerce sectors by enriching customer experience as it offers users a new channel to interact with companies; it can even recommend different products based on user habits and previous purchases. Moreover, artificial intelligence offers innovative tools with which companies can track their inventories and optimize their processes.

2. Robots

Robots are starting to become commonplace in the logistics sector. For example, logistics giant DHL recently announced an investment in assisted picking robots, as reported by MBN. Logistics World adds that these solutions are not only helpful to large companies but can support smaller ones as they are available at a wide range of prices. “For new installations, conceptualizing the highest level of automation and robotics can ensure a short return on investment and generate a competitive advantage. For existing installations, the modular implementation of basic solutions will give feasibility to the implementation of the projects adjusted to company budgets,” said Julio Enrique Martínez, Marketing Head at Dematic, to Logistics World.

3. Electronic Data Interchange (EDI)

According to CONALOG, an EDI interface is a perfect solution for supply chains as it allows companies to speed up delivery times while keeping competitive prices. EDI tools allow for agility, error minimization, standardization of messages, product traceability, supply chain planning and security, among other benefits.