AI, automation, and robotics are empowering workers to realize their full potential
In recent years, there has been a lot of confusion around the potential impact of AI and other advanced technologies on the supply chain workforce.
Experienced workers are afraid that AI and robotics will require extensive retraining or perhaps replace their jobs altogether. At the same time, tech savvy young people are avoiding the manufacturing sector because it is perceived as offering boring, dead-end jobs.
We think both of these narratives are off-base. In fact, we would go a step further and say that framing technology as a challenge is missing the point entirely.
Instead, we see technology as the catalyst for a stronger, more engaged workforce. AI, automation, and robotics, when implemented the right way, can be the means to attract and retain the best talent—and then maximize that talent to boost productivity and achieve business outcomes.
This new major workforce transformation will be driven as much by curiosity and imagination as by productivity and efficiency. The result will be a supply chain that is more nimble and resilient—and is also a great place to work.
Addressing the elephant in the room
To be clear, the negativity surrounding AI is real and shouldn’t be hand-waved away. Ignoring or minimizing employee fears around technology will only serve to increase mistrust. These concerns need to be confronted head-on with transparency and empathy.
A good communications strategy around AI prioritizes employees’ concerns over performance metrics or profit margins. Employees already know the importance of business goals; what they need reassurance about is that they still have a place in helping the company get there.
The basic story goes like this: AI eliminates many routine, monotonous tasks, which will allow workers to focus on more complex tasks that require human skills like judgment, creativity, and relationship-building.
The caveat is that workflows will shift and roles will change. It is important to be transparent when describing these changes: set realistic expectations and timelines and define clear outcomes. And make sure the channels of communication are open. Workforce transformation is a collaborative effort that relies on dialogue.
Supporting current employees with smarter upskilling
The good news is that employees are ready for AI and trust their leadership to provide a path to success, with an emphasis on training.
The key here is a smart upskilling program that goes beyond the tech’s basic functionality. Workers need to learn how to apply their human judgment and critical thinking skills within the context of the new tools.
For supply chain workers in functions like manufacturing, logistics, and warehousing, that means integrating technologies (like robotics) into their workflows as much as possible. That way, the upskilling is no longer theoretical—they will see with their own eyes how the training will impact their jobs.
The upskilling program does require investments of time and resources. Depending on the technology and the role, on-the-job training may be effective, or it may make more sense to offer paid time outside of normal work hours.
Ideally, as workers become more confident with the technology, they will be more empowered to make operational decisions and adjust to disruption. In today’s complex environment, businesses need employees who can think on their feet, deal with ambiguity, and understand the first principles that support supply chain processes.
For employees, jobs will be more satisfying and provide more opportunities for growth while relieving them of burdensome work—which is a recipe for increased job satisfaction.
Attracting new workers with technology and the right opportunities
Younger, tech-native workers are perfectly positioned for the new, technologically sophisticated world of manufacturing and logistics. The challenge is communicating the benefits of a supply chain career and then delivering them once they are hired.
Because they don’t realize how tech-driven and innovative the industry has become, the main challenge is showcasing technology and innovation in the supply chain, such as advanced robotics and virtual reality.
Younger workers also want to understand a company’s identity, including not only what they produce, but also their culture, mission, and impact on society. Potential hires are going to research employers via AI chatbots, social media channels, and Glassdoor before they make a move. Having a mobile-friendly, multi-faceted, and authentic social media strategy is a must for attracting the best talent.
Of course, wages and benefits are always important, but for younger workers, they are not the only concern. These workers prioritize job flexibility and work-life balance, meaningful work, and technological integration.
They are also eager to grow and lead as quickly as possible, so continuous learning and development opportunities are a big draw.
The takeaway is that young workers are available for hire, but companies have to put in the effort to attract them.
Bringing the team together
Putting the team in place—dependable veterans, eager new hires, and innovative tech—is an important first step. But ultimately, workforce transformation will be judged based on how well they execute the supply chain vision.
Even if experienced employees are on board with the new tech, they may not be sure how to use it, while younger employees who have already mastered the tech may have difficulty identifying what problems to optimize first. Creating mixed teams with complementary skillsets will facilitate knowledge transfer between older and younger generations and create better cohesion.
Perhaps most importantly, these unified teams will get the most out of the technology. AI, automation, and robotics will help supply chain teams act with speed and confidence instead of getting bogged down in the day-to-day grind. Instead of worrying about whether technology will replace them, they will be engaged in solving business problems and building their own career paths.
The most effective workforces of tomorrow will not be those with the most technology, but those with the best strategy for workforce transformation. When companies pair amazing technology with empathy, ethics, and continuous learning, employees, new and old, will bring their best selves to work and create an amazing business that benefits everyone.
