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Technology is driving change across all areas of life. Not only do we increasingly use new technologies and even rely on it in our personal lives, but we also find our workplaces digitally evolving. Industry 4.0 or 4th industrial revolution is predominantly a phase where several tasks once performed by us are now being automated. Artificial intelligence (AI), robotics, the collection and analysis of real time data, and the ability of components in the production lines to communicate through Internet of Things (IOT) have made supply chain networks efficient and customized to customers’ needs.

With increased automation we gained more free time to concentrate on more important tasks. Despite this, the human touch is going to be incredibly important in ensuring effective communication, problem solving and supporting change management in a rapidly evolving environment. Hence a workforce who can build and run such technologies and ensure they’re applied in an ethical way has turned the need of the hour.

Industry 4.0 technology has significantly enhanced the distribution system in many ways. At Electric Way, we are continuously evaluating technologies that make our services more efficient and economic. We are guided by some of the following Industry 4.0 principles highlighted below.

Inventory management

RFID tags and sensors track and monitor inventory in real-time and ensure safety. This allows distributors to maintain optimum stock levels at all times. This IoT-enabled inventory management system reorders automatically when stock reaches a certain threshold, thereby reducing the risk of stockouts or overstocking.

Warehouse automation

Automation and Robotics technologies manage warehouse operations such as picking up materials, packing, and sorting with minimal human intervention. Automated guided vehicles (AGVs) and robots efficiently move and transport products within the warehouse, reduce errors and increase operational speed and accuracy.

Route optimization

AI algorithms optimize delivery routes based on various factors such as traffic conditions, delivery schedules, and customer locations. By using real-time data, distributors plan the most efficient routes for their delivery vehicles thereby enabling deliveries on time, reducing transportation costs, and enhancing customer satisfaction.

Supply chain tracking

Big data analytics and cloud-based systems help distributors track and monitor the movement of cables and electricals from suppliers to customers, . This visibility allows for greater transparency and traceability, while also allowing proactive management of potential disruptions, faster issue resolution and improved coordination with suppliers and customers.

Customer experience

Industry 4.0 technologies enable distributors to augment customer experience. Ecommerce sites let customers easily browse and purchase products and enhance the buying process. AI-powered chatbots and virtual assistant provide quick and accurate responses to inquiries and keep track of orders.

Data analytics and insights

Through big data analytics, distributors gain valuable insights into customer preferences, buying patterns and market trends. This data-driven approach allows for better demand forecasting, improved inventory management and optimized product offerings. Distributors can align their stock levels and assortment with customer needs, reducing waste and increasing sales.

By embracing industry 4.0 technologies, distribution centers increase the speed of delivery and reduce human error. This makes them more efficient, flexible and competitive, thanks to technologies such as robotics, smart sensors, data analytics and IoT.