JTL: Encouraging Gender Diversity to enhance Quality of Service
Barkha Agarwal, Director & Business Development Manager, Jet Trade & Logistics
Prioritizing tasks and practicing effective time management are essential.
Just as a successful business requires a reliable team, managing personal and professional responsibilities demands a robust support system. This can take various forms, from involving your spouse and grandparents to hiring a reliable house help. Each member of the support network plays a crucial role in ensuring that both fronts run smoothly.Recognizing the value of time, I've adopted the habit of rising early. Those quiet morning hours provide me with an extra chunk of time that I find incredibly beneficial. It allows me to plan my day, engage in personal activities, and set a positive tone before the rush begins. I've been fortunate to have a cooperative and understanding family.
Gender diversity can enhance rather than hinder the quality of service.
Building confidence took time. It involved consistently proving my capabilities, leading by example, and fostering an environment where the focus was on skills and expertise rather than gender. Beyond the team, instilling confidence in customers was equally important. It required showing competence, delivering on promises, and demonstrating that gender diversity could enhance rather than hinder the quality of service.What pleasantly surprised me was the overall support I received from the industry. The logistics community, including our association and even our customers, proved to be incredibly welcoming. It was heartening to witness the collective acknowledgement that diversity contributes to a thriving and innovative industry.
Advancements in technology have shaped and enhanced the landscape of logistics.
The introduction of warehouse robots and the overall progression of digitalization have not only enhanced operational efficiency but have also dismantled gender stereotypes within the industry. Women are now able to undertake tasks that were historically reserved for their male counterparts. A key catalyst for this change is the rapid advancement in technology. It has transformed the way we plan, execute, and optimize various processes within the industry.The availability of robust data analytics tools has empowered logistics professionals to make informed decisions based on real-time data. IoT devices, such as sensors and RFID tags, provide real-time visibility into the movement and condition of goods. Advanced route optimization algorithms have improved transportation efficiency by identifying the most cost-effective and time-efficient routes. This not only reduces fuel consumption but also minimizes delivery times and associated costs.
Advanced fleet management systems utilize GPS tracking, telematics, and predictive maintenance to optimize the performance of vehicles. Beyond traditional roles at the executive and mid-management levels, we are witnessing a significant surge in women embracing technical positions, such as truck drivers, warehouse managers, forklift operators, shift supervisors and more. One noteworthy example is the emergence of women in last-mile delivery roles.
Logistics plays a pivotal role in contributing to the overall success of businesses and the Indian economy by serving as the backbone of trade, commerce, and economic growth.
The booming e-commerce sector relies heavily on logistics for last-mile delivery, warehouse management, and order fulfillment. The seamless integration of logistics services supports the growth of online businesses and enhances customer satisfaction. Logistics supports the adoption of just-in-time manufacturing practices, allowing businesses to operate with minimal inventory levels. This results in reduced holding costs and increased responsiveness to market fluctuations.There is growing emphasis on sustainability in logistics.
The industry is exploring eco-friendly practices, including electric vehicles, alternative fuels, and optimized route planning, to reduce its environmental impact. This focus aligns with global efforts to create a more sustainable and responsible supply chain. Innovations in last-mile delivery, such as autonomous delivery vehicles and drones, are reshaping the final leg of the supply chain.Encouraging and supporting women requires concerted effort from both the industry and government.
Encourage the formation of mentorship programs where experienced professionals can guide and support women in their career journeys. Implement programs that provide grants or subsidies for education and training in logistics-related fields for women. This can encourage more women to pursue careers in logistics and supply chain management.
LIFTING & SPECIALIZED TRANSPORT, March - April 2024
