Your study with Oxford Economics highlights that improving frontline workflows can deliver up to a 20% increase in productivity. What do you see as the most surprising or impactful finding from this research?
Optimised frontline workflows are proving to be a catalyst for both productivity gains and customer experience improvements.
The most striking finding from the “Impact of Intelligent Operations” study, conducted in collaboration with Oxford Economics is the significant potential of optimising frontline workflows and how that translates into measurable business performance. For example, the transportation and logistics sector globally reported up to a 21% increase in productivity, and the retail sector saw a 21% improvement in customer satisfaction. These outcomes highlight how modernising frontline operations resonate strongly with Australian retailers who are striving to enhance both in-store and online shopping experiences to stay competitive.
Equally important are the financial implications. The research estimates that leading companies in retail, manufacturing, and logistics globally could unlock an average of USD $3 billion in additional revenue and USD $120 million in added profit through workflow improvements. For top enterprises, the actual outcomes for Australian businesses will depend on how effectively they adopt and optimise advanced technologies and workflows.
The study underscores the transformative potential of AI, automation, and data-driven insights in reimagining frontline work. By embracing these technologies, Australian enterprises have the chance to strengthen their leadership locally while also enhancing their competitiveness on the global stage.
AI adoption is growing rapidly across industries, but data readiness remains a challenge. How are companies overcoming this barrier to move from pilot projects to scaled AI-driven workflows?
Data readiness remains a significant challenge for organisations, and Australian businesses are no exception. Many are addressing this by investing in core technologies that improve data quality, accessibility, and integration. Globally, industries are adopting tools like RFID and machine vision to capture and act on real-time data, enabling faster and more informed decision-making across sectors such as retail, manufacturing, and logistics.
Predictive analytics has also emerged as a critical enabler, allowing businesses to leverage both historical and real-time data to anticipate trends and adapt to changing consumer demands. For Australian companies operating in a dynamic market, this capability is becoming essential to staying competitive. Partnerships with technology providers like Zebra further accelerate this progress, with solutions designed to integrate seamlessly with existing systems, helping Australian organisations reduce complexity and effectively scale AI-driven workflows.
By combining these tools with robust data governance practices, Australian businesses are better equipped to move from experimentation to implementation. While challenges remain, this approach enables organisations to address immediate needs while also laying the foundation for long-term success in an increasingly technology-driven landscape
Retail, manufacturing, and logistics each face different workflow challenges. Where do you see AI and automation creating the fastest wins today?
AI and automation are delivering measurable benefits in workflows where speed, precision, and operational visibility are critical. These technologies are transforming operations globally and are particularly relevant to Australian industries, where businesses face unique challenges such as geographic dispersion and supply chain complexities:
– Retail: AI is being piloted globally in areas like loss prevention, risk detection, and inventory optimisation. For Australian retailers, these solutions directly address challenges such as reducing shrinkage and ensuring product availability across both urban and regional areas.The rapid growth of e-commerce and evolving consumer expectations, are helping retailers to deliver more consistent, efficient and personalised experiences.
– Manufacturing: Manufacturers globally are adopting AI and machine vision to enhance quality control and assurance workflows. In industries like food and beverage manufacturing, these technologies enable real-time defect detection and help maintain consistent quality standards. According to the study, such advancements have contributed to a 19% increase in productivity, demonstrating the tangible value of intelligent automation in improving consistency and output.
–Transportation & Logistics (T&L): Globally, AI is transforming inventory management, demand forecasting, and delivery operations by driving efficiencies and improving decision-making. These advancements are particularly relevant to Australian logistics providers, who are contending with labour shortages, supply chain disruptions, and the need to provide reliable delivery services across vast geographic distances. The study highlights productivity gains of up to 21% in the T&L sector from optimising workflows; these insights suggest significant potential for Australian organisations to benefit from similar technologies as they continue to adapt to evolving demands and operational complexities.
These industries are already seeing tangible benefits from AI and automation, and as adoption continues to grow, the impact is expected to increase. By integrating these technologies, Australian businesses can enhance operational efficiency and strengthen their position in both domestic and global markets.
When workflows become more automated and AI-driven, how does that change the role of frontline employees? What new skills or opportunities are emerging?
The role of frontline employees is evolving from task execution to task optimisation as automation and AI take over repetitive and time-consuming activities. This shift is enabling workers to focus on higher-value tasks such as problem-solving, customer engagement, and driving innovation. For industries like retail, manufacturing, and logistics in Australia, these capabilities are redefining how work gets done on the front line.
For employees, this evolution generates opportunities to upskill and take on more strategic roles. As intelligent operations become more prevalent, there is growing demand for skills in data interpretation, technology troubleshooting, and collaboration. In Australia’s logistics sector, employees are increasingly using real-time insights to make decisions that improve supply chain efficiency and customer satisfaction. Similarly, in retail, frontline staff are leveraging tools to optimise inventory management and deliver more personalised customer experiences.
At Zebra, we are committed to supporting frontline workers globally and across Australia, by equipping employees with the tools, insights, and training they need to succeed in this evolving environment. By providing employees with intelligent, connected solutions, we ensure they remain central to operational success. This shift not only enhances productivity but also creates more meaningful and fulfilling work opportunities for employees.
The study estimates that top enterprises could unlock billions in revenue by optimising workflows. How can organisations balance quick wins with longer-term investments to achieve these gains?
Balancing quick wins with long-term investments is essential for businesses worldwide, as they navigate evolving market dynamics. Achieving this balance requires a clear roadmap and deliberate prioritisation. Organisations should start by focusing on workflows that deliver immediate impact. The research shows that global retailers prioritising inventory management, manufacturers refining quality control, and T&L firms optimising delivery operations have all seen significant financial benefits. Australian organisations operating in these sectors can draw on these examples to identify high-impact opportunities for optimisation.
At the same time, businesses must make long-term investments in foundational technologies like AI, automation, and connected solutions. These tools not only enable scalability but also build resilience against challenges such as labour shortages, supply chain disruptions, and global economic shifts. By adopting these technologies, Australian organisations can future-proof their operations while driving sustainable growth.
Equally important is fostering a culture of continuous improvement. Australian businesses should regularly assess and refine workflows to stay responsive to evolving market conditions. For example, T&L firms can use predictive analytics to respond to demand fluctuations, while manufacturers can leverage machine vision to maintain high-quality standards. By combining short-term actions with a long-term vision, Australian enterprises can position themselves for sustained performance, profitability, and leadership in an increasingly intelligent economy.
Looking ahead, what does “intelligent operations” mean for Zebra’s customers? How do you see technologies like AI, machine vision, and RFID shaping the next five years?
“Intelligent operations” represent the next evolution in business performance, where advanced technologies and human expertise converge to create workflows that are faster, smarter, and more connected. For Zebra’s customers in Australia, this means leveraging real-time data, automation, and AI to optimise processes and improve decision-making across industries such as retail, manufacturing, and logistics.
In Australia, intelligent operations are particularly valuable for addressing challenges such as labour shortages, geographically dispersed supply chains, and increasing demand for speed and reliability. In the near future, we expect the following trends to shape industries:
– AI: AI will increasingly drive predictive analytics, helping businesses anticipate customer needs, optimise inventory, and mitigate risks. This is especially critical for Australian retailers managing complex inventory across diverse markets.
– Machine Vision: This technology will redefine quality control and process monitoring, particularly in manufacturing and logistics, where precision is essential for maintaining Australia’s reputation for high-quality exports.
– RFID: The adoption of RFID will enhance operational visibility, enabling businesses to track assets, inventory, and workflows in real time. An invaluable advantage for Australian logistics companies navigating vast geographic distances.
Together, these technologies, combined with Zebra’s commitment to delivering intelligent, connected solutions, will empower businesses to navigate change, address challenges, and maintain competitiveness. Guided by our our brand narrative, “Better Every Day,” we are helping Australian organisations achieve their goals while preparing for the future.
Leading Zebra Technologies' sales division for Australia, New Zealand, India & sub-continent, my leadership is defined by fostering robust partnerships and spearheading sustainable growth. Our collective efforts have been instrumental in ensuring that our customers' assets and workforce are visible, connected, and optimally utilized.
With a focus on new business development, key account management, and CRM, the team and I have driven regional growth, showcasing our commitment to excellence in customer service and innovative technology solutions. Leading through collaboration, we've solidified Zebra's position as a leader in markets across retail, transport & logistics, manufacturing, warehousing, healthcare and field services.
