Miloš Simonović, Director of the Technology Development Sector at Transfera
1. Your career began in IT. What made you decide to work in logistics and how do you see the career path that brought you to the company you now work for?
As a matter of fact, my career started in logistics. At the very beginning, I used to work on customs clearance where I became familiar with the complexity of international trade and various regulations that govern the flow of goods. Later on, I moved on to warehousing operations, and that’s where I learned how to deal with the challenges of managing inventory, optimising space and how to handle goods efficiently. IT industry has always been my passion – even as a little kid I had a keen interest in computers and later in life I did some computer programming as a kind of hobby.
Transfera recognised a unique combination of experience I acquired in logistics and my IT skills and offered me a job position that allowed me to harness my knowledge to the fullest while also pursuing my passion for IT. Today, I have an opportunity to work on projects which transform logistics networks through innovative technological solutions, creating a more efficient system that is capable of responding to the challenges posed by the modern market.
In hindsight, my career path looks like a logical sequence of events: from a deep understanding of logistics through practical application of the knowledge of IT in business all the way to my present role where I bridge those two worlds in order to improve the business processes.
2. Modern technology and logistics are increasingly more narrowly linked. Is logistics nowadays possible without AI and innovative tools?
It is true that modern technologies and logistics are tightly linked. Though nothing is impossible, logistics without AI and innovative tools is becoming increasingly more difficult. For example, imagine a logistics company as it was only a few decades ago – a huge volume of papers, manual record-keeping, reconciliation of inventory by mutual consent and unavoidable errors that slowed down the entire process.
It is safe to say that working like this was what caused problems such as excess inventory and shortages. However, with the advance of technology, logistics has outgrown its traditional framework. Today, logistics does not only meet the clients’ expectations but more often than not it takes on the role of a “key” for all issues arising in the chain of supply. And this is where AI stands out. The introduction of AI in everyday work dramatically changed things. AI made it possible to analyse a huge quantity of data in real-time, to predict demand with a high degree of accuracy and to automatically optimise certain segments of work organisation.
In addition to speeding up the processing of tasks and reducing the possibility of errors, modern tools enable a completely new dimension of efficiency and precision to be brought into operation. For this reason, in particular, technology integration is an inseparable part of every successful logistics strategy.
3. What’s most important for the development of this industry?
In my opinion, the most important factor for the development of this industry is people’s awareness of the importance of having accurate and precise data. Without them, even the most sophisticated systems cannot give the expected results. Every data entry, every control activity, and every dot in the supply chain must be accurate in order for the system to function properly because we cannot expect AI to do all our work for us unless we have set up a proper “springboard” for it.
Without accurate information, all further processes become inefficient and inadequate as they do not only help our managers to identify areas that require optimisation and reach decisions on how to improve the company’s performance, but they are also crucial for building a relationship of trust with clients and business partners. Clients rely on accurate information about the status of their packages while business partners expect reliable information on inventory and demand in order to plan their operations efficiently.
With respect to this, despite the important role that technological advancement plays in the development of the logistics industry, we must not forget that people are vital for the procurement and verification of data as well as the efficient use of such data. In the absence of awareness of how important accurate data are, all efforts to improve technology may turn out to be futile.
4. How does Transfera keep up with modern technologies?
Transfera’s plan is to undergo an all-encompassing digitization process with a particular focus on communication. The Company has recognised that efficient and fast communication is crucial for success in managing logistics operations and has invested significant resources in developing digital interfaces for internal and external communication.
Transfera uses advanced digital platforms that allow it instantaneous exchange of information between different departments. Instead of traditional methods such as paper records and manual data entry, employees now rely on integrated digital systems.
We invest efforts in continuous research into new technological trends and we implement state-of-the-art solutions to improve our operational efficiency and to provide better services to our clients. This comprehensive approach to digitization and modernisation of communication channels makes Transfera a leader in the logistics industry that provides fast, efficient and accurate services in a dynamic and competitive market.
5. What are the company’s plans regarding technological innovations?
Transfera has ambitious plans for the coming period including many projects that will additionally improve the efficiency and quality of our services. There is an exciting path ahead of us, filled with innovations and transformation, with a focus on several key areas.
The first on the list is the continuation of the process automation. Over the past several years, the company has already implemented numerous automated systems that have significantly contributed to improved operational efficiency. Currently, we plan to raise the process to a higher level as we work on developing advanced business improvement platforms in warehouses and distribution that will provide for faster and more precise daily operations.
Another vital aspect we will be working on is improving client reporting. In an era when information is key for fast and correct decision-making, our goal is to provide more transparent and detailed insight into the status of their packages and logistics processes.
All of these innovations are part of our broader strategy to become a leader in applying advanced technologies in logistics. We believe that these steps will enable us not only to improve our services but also to set new standards in the industry while providing high value and quality to our clients.
6. And finally, what is your message to generations that are just beginning to build their careers in the logistics industry?
Work on yourself on a daily basis. In the world of logistics, where technology advances at a high rate, the human factor is irreplaceable. AI and automation can improve efficiency and precision but your capacity for critical thinking, your ability to adapt to new situations and your creative problem-solving are what sets you apart.
Be ready to learn and develop your skills continuously. Invest time in understanding new tools and technological solutions but also improve your communication, analytical and leadership skills.
Face the challenges bravely and look at them as opportunities for growth, not as obstacles. Every problem you solve, and every project you complete will be of help for you personally and for your professional development. The experience you gain through practical work, failure and success, will prepare you for future challenges.
