--- title: What indicators should be monitored to justify an investment in logistics automation? description: What indicators should you track to justify an investment in logistics automation? 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Par [SCALLOG Experts](https://blog.scallog.com/en/author/léquipe-marketing-et-communication) | le  14/04/2023 |  temps de lecture : 6 min *Faced with rising order volumes, fast delivery requirements, and recruitment challenges, automating part of operations becomes a strategic decision. The goal is not to mechanize at all costs, but to reduce unnecessary movement, make workflows more reliable, and absorb growth without costs following the same trend. However, it is essential to distinguish the expected benefits, technical constraints, and how to deploy equipment without paralyzing the site.* ![What indicators should be monitored to justify an investment in logistics automation?](https://blog.scallog.com/hs-fs/hubfs/indicateurs-justifier-investissement-automatisation-logistique.jpg?width=1000&height=700&name=indicateurs-justifier-investissement-automatisation-logistique.jpg) ## What is warehouse automation? ### A scope that goes beyond robotics Warehouse automation brings together the equipment and software that execute or control storage, transport, order picking, and shipping tasks. Autonomous mobile robots transport bins or shelves, while conveyors, sorters, and automated storage and retrieval systems (ASRS) ensure steady movements. A WMS coordinates [inventory and priorities in real time](https://www.scallog.com/en/inventory/). Logistics software is therefore as critical as hardware: it translates order data into operational instructions and guarantees an integrated flow of information. To explore this topic further, check out this overview of [SCALLOG software for inventory management](https://www.scallog.com/en/software/). Goods-to-person solutions clearly illustrate this logic. Instead of having an operator walk through aisles, robots bring storage units directly to a workstation. This technology is particularly suited for sites handling large volumes of small orders across a wide range of SKUs. However, it is not the only answer: fixed systems remain relevant when volumes are stable, routes are predictable, or loads are standardized. ## Productivity and quality benefits ### A more consistent pace The primary benefit relates to processing capacity. An operator who no longer walks through the warehouse spends more time picking and inspecting items. Managers can compare picked lines per hour, workstation occupancy rates, and waiting times using the same indicator. This clear view of real-time operations simplifies decision-making and avoids sizing installations based on mere impressions. Automation also helps smooth out workflows. Night shifts or seasonal peaks can be absorbed through an adapted setup without placing the entire burden of performance on overtime. However, continuous availability remains subject to maintenance, safety, and the upstream inventory’s capacity to feed workstations. ### Fewer picking errors Barcode scanning, pick-to-light systems, quantity controls, and software validation minimize picking errors. Every movement is logged, making it easier to detect anomalies and track inventory in real time. Reducing returns and disputes directly lowers logistics costs. However, performance depends on item data accuracy and system parameters: an incorrect unit of measure will be replicated automatically. ## Economic benefits to evaluate over the life cycle ### Reducing costs beyond headcount reduction Cost reduction is not limited to labor. It encompasses temporary staffing during peak periods, shipping errors, additional floor space, and energy consumption linked to travel. Automating can stabilize teams and increase the volume processed per person, rather than automatically cutting jobs. A sound financial calculation weighs investment, integration, maintenance, and energy costs against real savings measured over several years. Storage densification is another leverage point. Taller racking, optimized layout design, or automated storage systems can free up space without relocating. This option depends on the building, load limits, and fire safety regulations. Therefore, it must be validated by a technical audit rather than inferred from sales collateral. ### A return on investment unique to each site ROI varies based on order volume, shipping window constraints, number of SKUs, and real estate costs. A reliable financial model tests multiple scenarios: low growth, demand spikes, product mix shifts, and temporary equipment downtime. This approach makes decisions more robust and reveals the true level of automation required. ## Less strenuous work and safer operations In a goods-to-person system, items come to the operator. Walking, bending, and repetitive heavy lifting are significantly reduced, which can lessen exposure to musculoskeletal disorders. Workstations must still be carefully designed: presentation height, screen ergonomics, bin weight, and task rotation matter just as much as the technology itself. Separating robotic zones from pedestrian traffic limits the risk of collisions with forklifts or pallet jacks. Sensors detect obstacles, but they do not replace floor markings or safety procedures. Teams also gain higher skills by supervising systems, inspecting quality, and analyzing workflows. ## A competitive advantage for retail and industry The market demands shorter lead times and end-to-end traceability. A facility capable of processing single-unit orders, managing returns, and honoring fast delivery commitments protects its service level. This reliability becomes a competitive edge when customers can choose among multiple suppliers. Modularity facilitates scalable capacity. A business can start with a high-rotation area, then add robots, workstations, or racking as growth demands. Artificial intelligence can help anticipate demand or optimize picking sequences, but it cannot fix an illogical layout or incomplete master data. ## Deploying without shutting down warehouse operations ### Why some projects disrupt activity A high-capacity fixed system may require civil engineering, floor-anchored conveyors, floor anchoring, protective barriers, and electrical infrastructure upgrades. These tasks are not design flaws: they meet specific needs for throughput, height, or storage. They simply require rigorous preparation, as locking down an aisle or zone can disrupt shipping schedules. ### Phasing limits operational risk A gradual rollout begins with a defined perimeter. Zone-by-zone phasing allows installing a first cell while maintaining manual operations elsewhere. Progressively transitioning SKUs and orders gives teams time to complete training, test interfaces, and handle exceptions. This approach reduces the risk of overall workflow disruption and provides measurable results before further expansion. Mobile robots offer great flexibility here: their installation generally requires less heavy structural modification to the building than a fixed line, even though safety zones, workstations, and IT infrastructure are still required. The choice must stem from actual operational requirements, not an arbitrary debate between technologies. ## How to choose the right solution? Start by evaluating hourly throughput, item dimensions, order priorities, and transport constraints. Map out current workflows, dock waiting times, and tasks that generate the most errors. Also, check the interoperability between your WMS, ERP, and material handling equipment. A reliable integrator documents assumptions, fallback plans, maintenance protocols, and performance metrics. Both SMEs and large distribution centers can automate, provided they select a coherent scope. Urban logistics hubs and facilities near city centers often seek high storage density within a limited footprint. In all cases, market demands, transport limitations, and evolving order profiles must be detailed in the project specifications. ## Frequently asked questions ### Is automation reserved only for large sites? No. A modular installation can target a single workshop, a picking area, or a secondary distribution center. System sizing must remain proportionate to volume and sustainable costs. ### How long does it take to deploy a solution? Timeline depends on civil engineering work, interface development, phasing, and testing. A robotics project can be executed in stages, whereas a heavily integrated fixed installation often requires longer preparation. It is best to get a detailed schedule from your vendor rather than relying on a theoretical estimate. ### Does automation eliminate jobs? It primarily transforms tasks. Operators spend less time walking and more time on quality control, supervision, and process monitoring. Success relies on training and clear career path progression. ## Key takeaways Investing in warehouse automation can reduce errors, shorten lead times, and lower certain operating costs while improving working conditions. However, the return depends on the operating model, data quality, and rollout plan. By combining workflow analysis, integrated solutions, and a phased transition, you turn a technical project into a strategic decision with real-world tracked results rather than an abstract promise. ### Inscrivez vous a la newsletter ![SCALLOG Experts](https://blog.scallog.com/hubfs/em5kVUmy_400x400.jpg) ### [SCALLOG Experts](https://blog.scallog.com/en/author/léquipe-marketing-et-communication) #### [**Article précédent** How to integrate an automation solution into an existing WMS?](https://blog.scallog.com/en/erp-wms-wcs-optimise-your-stock-management-software) #### [**Article suivant** Cybersecurity: logistics tackling IT piracy](https://blog.scallog.com/en/logistique-4-0-nouvel-enjeu-cybersécurité) #### Ces articles peuvent vous intéresser ## [What solutions are there to manage reverse logistics in e-commerce?](https://blog.scallog.com/en/how-to-optimize-reverse-logistics) ## [Amazon Robotics and logistics robots in the supply chain](https://blog.scallog.com/en/amazon-robotics-robots-logistiques-supply-chain) ## [Dark stores: the future of urban logistics?](https://blog.scallog.com/en/dark-stores-the-future-of-urban-logistics) ## [What solutions are there to manage reverse logistics in e-commerce?](https://blog.scallog.com/en/how-to-optimize-reverse-logistics) ## [How do you manage stock using Excel?](https://blog.scallog.com/en/gestion-stocks-excel) ## [Amazon Robotics and logistics robots in the supply chain](https://blog.scallog.com/en/amazon-robotics-robots-logistiques-supply-chain) ## [What solutions are there to manage reverse logistics in e-commerce?](https://blog.scallog.com/en/how-to-optimize-reverse-logistics) ## [How do you manage stock using Excel?](https://blog.scallog.com/en/gestion-stocks-excel) ## [Amazon Robotics and logistics robots in the supply chain](https://blog.scallog.com/en/amazon-robotics-robots-logistiques-supply-chain) ## [What solutions are there to manage reverse logistics in e-commerce?](https://blog.scallog.com/en/how-to-optimize-reverse-logistics) ## [Amazon Robotics and logistics robots in the supply chain](https://blog.scallog.com/en/amazon-robotics-robots-logistiques-supply-chain) ## [Dark stores: the future of urban logistics?](https://blog.scallog.com/en/dark-stores-the-future-of-urban-logistics) ## [What solutions are there to manage reverse logistics in e-commerce?](https://blog.scallog.com/en/how-to-optimize-reverse-logistics) ## [Amazon Robotics and logistics robots in the supply chain](https://blog.scallog.com/en/amazon-robotics-robots-logistiques-supply-chain) ## [Dark stores: the future of urban logistics?](https://blog.scallog.com/en/dark-stores-the-future-of-urban-logistics) ## [What solutions are there to manage reverse logistics in e-commerce?](https://blog.scallog.com/en/how-to-optimize-reverse-logistics) ## [How do you manage stock using Excel?](https://blog.scallog.com/en/gestion-stocks-excel) ## [Amazon Robotics and logistics robots in the supply chain](https://blog.scallog.com/en/amazon-robotics-robots-logistiques-supply-chain) ### Laisser nous votre commentaire ### Download our case study:   [![CTA-decathlon-(EN 800x800)](https://hubspot-no-cache-eu1-prod.s3.amazonaws.com/cta/default/6887327/b95f14e6-de66-4938-8233-7b45012696a2.png)](https://hubspot-cta-redirect-eu1-prod.s3.amazonaws.com/cta/redirect/6887327/b95f14e6-de66-4938-8233-7b45012696a2) ## Articles les plus lus ### Thématiques - [Automatiser (37)](https://blog.scallog.com/tag/automatiser) - [Commandes (37)](https://blog.scallog.com/tag/commandes) - [Ecommerce (25)](https://blog.scallog.com/tag/ecommerce) - [Entrepôt (45)](https://blog.scallog.com/tag/entrepôt) - [Goods to man (27)](https://blog.scallog.com/tag/goods-to-man) - [Insider (5)](https://blog.scallog.com/tag/insider) - [kitting (1)](https://blog.scallog.com/tag/kitting) - [Logistique (45)](https://blog.scallog.com/tag/logistique) - [Omnicanal (11)](https://blog.scallog.com/tag/omnicanal) - [rse (1)](https://blog.scallog.com/tag/rse) See all ### Suivez nous sur : ![SCALLOG](https://blog.scallog.com/hubfs/Logo-1.png) @SCALLOG - 2025 ### Contactez - nous 15, rue du Port 92000 Nanterre France Tél. : + 33 (0)1 84 20 82 42 [Mentions Légales](https://www.scallog.com/fr/mentions-legales/) [Politique de Confidentialités](https://www.scallog.com/fr/mentions-legales/) ```json { "@context" : "https://schema.org", "@type" : "BlogPosting", "author" : { "@type" : "Person", "name" : "SCALLOG Experts" }, "dateModified" : "2026-10-26T15:41:35", "datePublished" : "2023-04-14T09:25:37", "description" : "What indicators should you track to justify an investment in logistics automation? 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