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People vs. Technology in Logistics: Why Communication is Key

People vs Technology with a female RJ Logistics customer service representative on a headset phone using communication.

In an age of advanced technology, the logistics industry has been revolutionized. Technology has also created a communication gap. As a result, issues arise, and without proper communication and problem-solving, you suffer from shipping headaches. 

Technology has been the driving force behind most of the progress made in the logistics industry. It has increased the efficiency and speed of shipping, improved safety, and decreased costs. However, when it comes to solving real-life problems, technology is lacking and can create other issues in the process. 

Technology lacks the skills to solve human problems

Although we’d all like to avoid shipping delays, issues happen. When an expressway is unexpectedly shut down or a mechanical failure arises, your shipment timeline may be altered affecting your bottom line and schedule.

When you hire a logistics company, you deserve quality real-time communication and problem-solving. Here lies the problem with technology and its lack of ability to solve human issues and communicate with human attributes. 

Your shipment not arriving as expected can play a critical role in your business’ success

Logistics plays a crucial role in the success of any company. Whether you’re a small business owner or an established enterprise, you can’t afford to overlook the importance of expected communication in your freight delivery. Without proactive communication when delays arise your brand reputation, customer loyalty, and revenue are at stake.

If your shipment does not arrive as you expect it to, you risk:

  1. Your customers feeling undervalued:
    When your freight doesn’t arrive as promised, your customers are left high and dry. They may have been depending on the order to fulfill their commitments, and any delay or errors can cause them inconvenience and even loss. As a result, they may feel like they’re not a priority for your business, which can lead to a loss of trust and loyalty.
  2. Your reputation suffers:
    Delayed or incomplete freight delivery reflects poorly on your business. Leading to a loss of future business with current and potential customers. Additionally, the delay can cause downstream effects, such as missed deadlines or canceled projects that can hurt your relationship with other stakeholders.
  3. Frustration and disappointment:
    Poor communication during freight delivery can exacerbate the negative feelings and effects. You deserve to know what’s happening with your freight in real time. But when the logistics provider or carrier fails to keep you informed, you’re left in the dark. This can lead to frustration and disappointment as you struggle to find out what went wrong.

Human communication is an invaluable asset to your business

When it comes to logistics, life can happen and issues come up, good communication between people is what makes the logistics processes smooth. People are more accountable to one another, they can anticipate and address issues before they even occur, saving time and decreasing costs. Conversely, when there is an issue, communication allows people to work together to find solutions quickly, minimizing negative impacts on daily operations.

When you know what to expect and what is happening, communication will help you avoid a shipping headache and your business can continue operating as normal.

Technology is a great servant, but a bad master; this take on Francis Bacon’s quote “Money is a great servant but a bad master”, epitomizes the problem at hand. Technology, as wonderful as it is, alone lacks what RJ Logistics can offer your business with our people.

Technology and people work together for success

The importance of balancing the roles of people and technology in logistics and how they both relate to each other. People and technology are two sides of the same coin in logistics, and both are necessary for success. While technology advancements have brought significant improvements, it’s vital not to overlook the importance of the human factor and the skills they bring to the table.

RJ Logistics Delivering Positive Experiences sign on a wood box

At RJ Logistics, we value both people and technology. We believe that proper communication is key to great service delivery. As logistics continues to evolve, it’s essential to remember that solutions are found not only through technology but with people who have mastered it. It’s only through the delicate balance of both that we can continue to excel, and we encourage our stakeholders to always remember the importance of (constructive) communication in logistics.

Reach out to RJ Logistics, where you can access invaluable customer service!

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