Robotic Process Automation: Changing the Supply Chain Industry

Shipping and logistics have been there from the human civilization and have since been evolving. Changes in technology kept the logistics industry at the edge to adapt and accept new innovations (AI, Blockchain, Drones) to be a part of the competition. The newest innovation RPA or Robotic Process Automation, coupled with AI is the latest to join the bandwagon and has the ability to automate various activities in the shipping and logistics sector. The logistics industry in India is ready to adopt as much as technology can offer as it has more to gain and a little to lose.

About Robotic Process Automation

RPA is software combined with AI and machine learning capabilities to perform repeatable and boring tasks (previously performed by humans) with a virtual workforce. Robotic solutions do not require any complex coding; they can easily interact with the existing IT architecture. 
This new innovation can be utilised to automate workflow, back-office processes and infrastructure among others. It consists of software robots or bots that can copy a human worker as it can easily log on to applications, enter data, analyse, calculate and complete tasks and then log out.  RPA software can run on any platform from a PC, laptop to a mobile device. 

 Where can be RPA implemented in logistics?

RPA can automate:

• Order and processing system
• Email notification & communication
• Procurement & inventory process
• Invoicing 
• Customer responsiveness
• Report generation
• Shipment scheduling &  tracking

 How can RPA benefit the logistics industry?

Accuracy guaranteed: The software bots or robots that are fed with processes and procedures perform the task with a near-zero probability of error. The assigned work is handled and executed with 100% efficiency with no re-work efforts; hence the work is completely free of errors and of high quality. 
Quicker process time: Many tasks in an organization are repeatedly done and are manual. With RPA, such tasks can be done faster and can reduce the process cycle time and increase productivity. 
Revenue generation: With RPA deployment, organizations will be able to adapt automation that will reduce the process cycle time; improve efficiency and accuracy resulting in better performance, productivity and high-quality results for each task. With all processes left with RPA, the organisation will be able to focus on the requirements of existing customers and involve themselves in making crucial decisions with regard to customers’ specs leading to more sales and revenue. 
Improve forecasting & logistics planning: RPA-controlled and efficient activities create new opportunities in the supply chain for financial success. It also allows forecasting by identifying current trends and patterns in supply chain demand, changes in weather conditions and how they impact deliveries. 
20Cube, a forward-looking technology-based logistics industry is all set to adopt RPA and move forward towards achieving greater heights. With its entire process automated using the MyHub platform, it is able to offer transparency and control to customers to make the right business decisions.