Survey: Most retailers do not have automated logistics

With a reliable means of harnessing the cloud for data integration, companies can avoid the concerns of older, applet-based terminal emulators. Integrating data may, in turn, make it easier to address logistical challenges, such as processing orders while maintaining high levels of productivity.

Data and effective software doesn't just help manage technology.

Shipping platform company Temando recently released the results of a survey of 214 retailing companies, which showed that 33 percent of retailers do not use an automated process for product returns.

The most widely observed form of automation listed was booking couriers, but even this only accounted for 28 percent of retailers. Automating shipping options and adding to the different means of transportation remains a desirable function for these businesses.

A consistent theme in these findings is the gap between what these companies want and what they are actually able to put into practice. Another example comes in the way entities are willing to use drones for deliveries, even as that technology is still maturing.

Data and effective software doesn't just help manage technology: it's also useful for mitigating employee concerns. In an article for CIO, HighGround founder Vip Sandhir cites the particular importance of continuous dialog between workers and managers to successfully reach improvements.

"The key here is you have to set up a safe place for employees where their voice is heard and the organization can understand the impact of that sentiment," Sandhir said. Because strong employee engagement can lead to strong customer engagement, the tools used to ensure both of these may belong on a continuous spectrum.

The most adaptable IT modernization options will grant organizations the ability to work with large amounts of data through different devices for comprehensive improvements in the organization's use of technology.