Logistics is one of the fastest-growing sectors in India. With consumer preferences changing from retail to e-commerce and rapid technological advancement, the logistics sector faces new challenges of adjusting to the evolving scenarios and coping with digital technologies. The need for the upskilling workforce in the logistics sector had never been felt so strongly before.

The future growth and challenges in Logistics

Every company that has inflow and outflow of physical goods understands the need for a well-oiled logistics department, and the Logistics business needs to deliver frictionless logistics to customers.

However, like all industries, logistics businesses are going through a tremendous change, and the road ahead is challenging. Below are the main challenges.

• Sustainable supply chain – We are noticing the impacts of global climate change, and hence companies who are taking actions that result in better environmental impacts are encouraged.

Consumers are demanding logistic businesses to be more responsible and use clean technology. But due to lack of awareness among logistics employees, companies are struggling to adapt and come up with better solutions.

• Automation of logistics – The role of automation has increased in all industries. The trends state that automation technologies such as sensors, bar code scanners, and drones can help workers handle the goods better.

These automation machines require skilled workers and a better understanding of the use of technology.

• AI and Data analytics – Data management isn’t new, but AI has leveraged logistics companies to decode the best routes, order size, and better inventory management.

To enable AI, logistics executives need to handle business data well and ensure it is used correctly.

Based on the above challenges, it is clear that logistics companies lack skilled resources and hence require quality training programs for their employees.

Pandemic Impact

Nonetheless, the impact of COVID-19 has pushed the need for better training programs. For example, E-Commerce companies increased their dependence on the logistics business during the pandemic; frontline workers had to work relentlessly. Logistics companies had to provide online COVID training to keep them motivated, which helped them deliver safely.

Upskilling is the need of the hour.

Logistics Employer Skills Survey showed they suffer from skills gaps across all occupational levels. At least 21% of companies employing operational staff have personnel who are not fully proficient. (Source)

Considering the above facts, Upskilling is one of the best strategies available to ensure the company is ready to face future challenges.

But, Training and development are considered to be a top challenge, alongside maintaining business operations.

The current development in enterprise learning can help companies develop a highly personalized and flexible learning environment to make learning easier.

So, let’s understand how L&D managers can use Enterprise Learning Tools to build a better learning system.

• Create a complete Skill Stack –

Firstly understand the existing skill gap.

Every role requires a set of skills, and L&D managers can develop the list of skills needed as well as assess the current gap and create a learning program through Enterprise Learning tools.

For example, the Disprz Skill Stack feature can identify technical skills, soft skills, and educational qualifications required by logistic warehouse executives and help to develop a learning strategy to bridge the gap. A complete skill stack can help in creating a better learning environment.

• Initiate training at different levels – Second, set up training progress at all levels. L&D managers can also enhance their training program by initiating them for recruits to frontline workers so that there is continuous training for all kinds of workers.

• Take Advantage of AI and Data Analytics – AI is not limited to industries, and an AI-powered LXP platform provides a better learning experience to employees.

Based on an employee’s skill gaps and interests, LXP can recommend content, create a customized training dashboard and help employees and their managers track their learning program easily.

• Content is the King – Companies can set up a content management system through Enterprise learning tools and help employees learn faster and effectively. Learning Tools also provide efficient learning methods which are highly suitable for logistics employees. Below are a few fantastic means to make learning more fun

• Micro-Learning – A short variety of content encourages learners to be more active.
• Gamification – Incorporating gaming elements like polls, online quizzes has proved to create a better learning impact.
• Multilingual – One of the best features available to train your last mile workers who generally prefer to learn in their local language.

• Flexible Learning Option – Mobile-Based Learning is one of the popular features of Enterprise Learning Solutions.

Employees in Logistics companies are always busy, and to ensure there is no stop for continuous learning, L&D managers can choose flexible learning options.

• Evaluate and Monitor – Until we check and regularly monitor employee performance and its impact on their work, no training program is complete. Today, enterprise learning not just assists in setting up and cultivating a learning habit. It also helps employees and managers track and provide critical points such as

1. Employee’s learning frequency.
2. Track Future trends and evaluate how long the employee shall take to complete the program.
3. Compare job performance and learning assessments.

To tackle future disruptions, companies must adopt the above technologies to develop an upskilling training program. These programs can be a great growth asset for organizations in the modern world. It also encourages employees to be more active and creates an active learning environment.