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Automating Logistics Operations: Qualitative Insights from Four European Sites

Author

Listed:
  • Guglielmo Papagni

    (Center for Technology Experience, Austrian Institute of Technology, 1210 Vienna, Austria)

  • Setareh Zafari

    (Center for Technology Experience, Austrian Institute of Technology, 1210 Vienna, Austria)

  • Johann Schrammel

    (Center for Technology Experience, Austrian Institute of Technology, 1210 Vienna, Austria)

  • Manfred Tscheligi

    (Center for Technology Experience, Austrian Institute of Technology, 1210 Vienna, Austria
    Center for Human-Computer Interaction, University of Salzburg, 5020 Salzburg, Austria)

Abstract

Background: Automated vehicles are increasingly entering logistics operations, driven by factors like controllability, standardization, and reduced risk. However, successful automation requires understanding the diverse perspectives of logistics stakeholders. Method: This paper investigates these perspectives through 28 interviews with representatives from five key stakeholder groups within the European Project AWARD’s four pilot sites. Results: Key findings highlight positive expectations for efficiency, safety, and reliability, but also identify critical prerequisites still to be met: further technological advancements, shifts in logistics roles and working conditions, regulatory improvements, and careful narrative building around technology. Conclusions: A deeper analysis of individual stakeholder groups and pilot site representatives reveals nuanced needs and concerns, emphasizing the importance of considering different perspectives and need for further research involving a wider range of stakeholder groups to fully capture the complexities of this emerging field.

Suggested Citation

  • Guglielmo Papagni & Setareh Zafari & Johann Schrammel & Manfred Tscheligi, 2024. "Automating Logistics Operations: Qualitative Insights from Four European Sites," Logistics, MDPI, vol. 8(4), pages 1-21, November.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jlogis:v:8:y:2024:i:4:p:114-:d:1516544
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Valeska Engesser & Evy Rombaut & Lieselot Vanhaverbeke & Philippe Lebeau, 2023. "Autonomous Delivery Solutions for Last-Mile Logistics Operations: A Literature Review and Research Agenda," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 15(3), pages 1-17, February.
    2. David H. Autor, 2015. "Why Are There Still So Many Jobs? The History and Future of Workplace Automation," Journal of Economic Perspectives, American Economic Association, vol. 29(3), pages 3-30, Summer.
    3. Sgarbossa, F. & Grosse, E. H. & Neumann, W. P. & Battini, D. & Glock, C. H., 2020. "Human factors in production and logistics systems of the future," Publications of Darmstadt Technical University, Institute for Business Studies (BWL) 120615, Darmstadt Technical University, Department of Business Administration, Economics and Law, Institute for Business Studies (BWL).
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