Gain expert insights from Ankur Dekivadia on how intelligent warehousing, powered by real-time visibility, automation, and workforce synergy, is transforming storage facilities into agile hubs that rapidly respond to shifting market demands.
Automation augments human roles, creating demand for new skills and greater agility
Ankur Dekivadia, Deputy General Manager – SCM, Safari Industries India, emphasises that warehousing has evolved far beyond traditional storage. With global supply chains strained by fluctuating demand, labour shortages, and geopolitical uncertainty, warehouses have transformed into intelligent ecosystems central to operational agility. “Today’s warehouses are not only about robotics or data—they represent the synergy between technology and people to drive accuracy, responsiveness, and scalability,” he states. This shift makes warehousing a strategic function critical to supply chain resilience.
Innovative spaces
Dekivadia defines an innovative warehouse as a smart, connected, and adaptive space designed for resilience. It integrates predictive analytics, modular automation, and flexible operations that respond swiftly to disruptions—from e-commerce surges to geopolitical challenges. Real-time visibility tools, scalable automation, and sustainability initiatives enable companies to balance efficiency with cost and environmental responsibility. Such facilities don’t just react—they anticipate, adapt, and optimise operations in real time.
Game-changing tools
According to Dekivadia, transformative technologies are delivering measurable improvements:
- Warehouse Management Systems (WMS) enhance inventory accuracy up to 99% and cut order cycle times by 20–30%.
- Autonomous Mobile Robots (AMRs) boost picking productivity by 3–4 times and reduce walking time by 80%.
- Automated Storage and Retrieval Systems (AS/RS) lower labour costs by 50% and increase throughput in dense environments.
- IoT sensors and RFID improve traceability, predictive maintenance, and live tracking.
- Artificial intelligence strengthens demand forecasting and enables dynamic inventory slotting.
These tools collectively transform warehouses into proactive, data-driven control centres.
Automation truths
Despite the benefits, Dekivadia notes several automation myths that hinder adoption. “There’s a fear that automation eliminates jobs, but in truth, it reshapes roles—creating demand for robot supervisors, systems analysts, and tech support,” he explains. Another misconception is that only large corporations can afford automation. Scalable solutions like Robotics-as-a-Service have opened doors for SMEs. And while some expect automation to function independently, success actually depends on continuous tuning, integration, and human oversight.
People first
Dekivadia stresses that the real power of automation lies in how organisations engage their people. “It’s not just about the tech—it’s about how your workforce connects with it.” He recommends structured change management, early employee involvement, and tailored training programmes. Promoting a culture of innovation, feedback, and transparency ensures that employees see technology as an enabler, not a threat. The ultimate goal is a seamless blend of machine precision and human adaptability.
Retail visibility example
A standout example Dekivadia shares is Zara, which revolutionised its warehouse model using real-time visibility. With RFID-tagged products and centralised data linking sales to warehouse activity, they could dynamically allocate inventory. This enabled restocking within 24–48 hours, reduced unsold inventory by 15 percent, and allowed fast reaction to shifting trends—boosting both customer satisfaction and profitability.
