Large retail players have been undergoing digital transformation for a long time. Proof of this is the growth in online sales, driven by increased consumer confidence and sales campaigns such as Black Friday and Christmas. Thousands of people follow promotions and opportunities online during the occasion. A demand that calls for an efficient logistics structure and technology to manage and control product deliveries within the agreed deadline.
In addition to this example, we also have brands that work with low replacement products, “one by one”, maintaining quality and differentiated service, which happens a lot with supermarket chains and pharmacies. Here it is also necessary to apply a personalized logistics management system, which effectively understands this demand, as products cannot spoil or be missing from shelves.
These are some of the examples of how digital transformation was necessary in retail in terms of logistics, where we are especially faced with increasingly demanding consumers. And it wasn’t difficult for you to find this topic alongside the expression “consumer experience”, which today calls for immediacy and excellence in service. Well, we live in the era of experience and agile logistics has made a difference in this matter.
Along with all these changes, several platforms for working online emerged on the market, in addition, of course, to management software, an area where I work as Head of Logistics Product in a large Brazilian company. However, adhering to all of this just to be inserted in the context of digital transformation was never the starting point, but it has always been a key that my company colleagues and I work on with all our clients and prospects: how can you start your journey of digital transformation?
Reviewing processes is the beginning of the journey
To carry out a digital transformation you need to understand the processes in your area, in your company. This is a cultural change. The starting point is: how can I make this my activity better? How can I optimize my management?
Many companies understood this message and began this in-depth assessment long before the Covid-19 pandemic. Yes, change is complicated. It requires study, time, attention and involvement from everyone, in addition, of course, to a certain amount of investment. Perhaps for this reason, many organizations left the issue aside.
Today, faced with an unpredictable crisis and an unstable economy, many companies find themselves asking these questions that were ignored until then. A process that has caused phobia and a sense of urgency. However, even with all the sensitive issues of the moment, the truth is that it has never been so clear to understand what digital transformation is.