Artificial Intelligence is known as a problem-killer for businesses. It’s especially true for logistics with its variety of interconnected business processes and complex tasks.
No wonder a lot of companies rely on logistics app development or build custom software to streamline business processes. In this article, I’ve tried to single out the top five problems that are already solved by AI or will be solved in the nearest future.
#1. Warehouse Automation
AI simplifies a bunch of processes here from gathering data from multiple sources to inventory. Forecasting the demand for products is another warehouse-related field where AI is actively applied. It helps to save tons of time and money on shipping goods to regional warehouses.
Ocado is a UK supermarket leveraging the power of AI. The company has a high-end, automated warehouse where thousands of robots pack groceries. The computer vision technology made this possible.
#2. Automated Vehicles
Self-driving cars and trucks are no longer a surprise. Even though they are not yet applied in commercial needs, many companies see it as a game-changer for many companies, given that many have already started keeping an eye on reliable companies in this field.
For example, Waymo has launched the first commercial taxi service using driver-less cars called Waymo One. Self-driving trucks are the company’s next milestone.
Rolls-Royce has been working since 2010 to build autonomous ships. Recently, the company has announced the collaboration with Intel. Companies unite forces to build intelligent shipping systems and make commercial shipping safer.
#3. Intelligent Roads
There are companies that work on the development of smart roads equipped with LED lights and solar panels. Not only can such roads generate electricity, but use the light to warn drivers about changes on the road and solar panels to melt the snow in winter.
The benefit for logistics is obvious: no delays because of weather conditions.
Integrated Roadways is a company working on smart pavement systems that will be able to connect vehicles to the internet and provide drivers with real-time data on traffic jams and accidents on the road.
#4. AI for back-office operations
AI in logistics also focuses on back-office operations helping employees to improve their efficiency and automate routine tasks. The combination of AI and Robotic Process Automation is typically used to improve back-office operations.
A good example are tasks connected with reviewing contracts and identifying clauses bearing potential risks. AI-powered solutions cope with this task faster than humans and do it more accurate.
Leverton is the AI-powered contract analytics software working with over thirty languages. Users can program Leverton to pull the necessary data out from contracts and documents automatically.
#5. Forecasts and predictions
Demand forecasting is probably one of the most essential features in logistics. AI can predict buying trends assessing multiple factors to get more accurate results.
AI can also personalize the customer experience. The partnership between DHL and Amazon illustrates that point just great. Amazon’s clients can ask Alexa where is the parcel they’re waiting for and the smart assistant will tell about the parcel’s location and shipment details.
The impact of Artificial Intelligence on logistics and other industries will be only continuing to grow in the future. The list of problems that AI solves is long and ever growing.
