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By Zebra Blog Team | Oct. 7, 2025
Intelligent Operations Empower Frontline Heroes
The way we work is changing, and it’s happening fast. Across industries like manufacturing, retail, and transportation and logistics (T&L), businesses are embracing smarter, faster, and more connected ways of working. Why? Because the world demands it. Customers expect flawless service, employees want meaningful roles, and companies need to stay resilient in the face of constant change. But how do we get there? The answer lies in intelligent operations.
At its core, intelligent operations combine advanced technologies including artificial intelligence (AI), automation, and real-time data with the human touch. It’s not about replacing people; it’s about enabling them to work smarter and deliver better results. And the benefits are clear. Our new study conducted with Oxford Economics shows that businesses adopting these modern approaches are seeing real, measurable improvements: more revenue, higher productivity, and happier customers.
Connecting the Frontline Makes a Difference
In manufacturing, even the smallest misstep can have big consequences. Missed defects, unexpected equipment breakdowns, or misplaced materials can disrupt entire production lines. But when manufacturers tap into intelligent tools like AI-powered machine vision for quality control, they’re seeing incredible results.
According to the study, manufacturing companies using these technologies are boosting average annual revenue and profitability by 2.4 and 1.4 percentage points, respectively. That’s not just progress; it’s a competitive advantage.
What’s more, connected frontline workers are at the heart of this success. By automating repetitive tasks and giving employees the tools to make faster, more informed decisions, manufacturers are achieving consistent, reliable outcomes. It’s proof that when people and technology work hand in hand, amazing things happen.
Logistics Rarely Miss a Beat
If you’ve ever tracked a package in real time or received a delivery earlier than expected, you’ve experienced the magic of intelligent operations in T&L. In an industry where speed and precision are everything, AI-driven demand forecasting and route optimization help logistics companies thrive, even in the face of global supply chain disruptions.
The study shows that T&L firms optimizing their workflows this way can grow average annual revenue by up to 3.4 percentage points. Two-thirds of logistics leaders are already piloting AI solutions to predict demand and streamline operations. It’s no longer a question of “if” these technologies will be adopted; it’s happening now, and it’s redefining what’s possible.
Reinvent Retail, Make Each Customer Experience Count
Retailers are also raising the bar with intelligent operations. Shoppers today expect convenience, accuracy, and personalized service, and modern technology makes it all possible. AI-powered forecasting, RFID technology and other tools help retailers manage inventory with precision, leading to a 21% boost in customer satisfaction according to the study. But it’s not just about the numbers. Real-time asset visibility means store associates spend less time counting products and more time connecting with customers, building loyalty, trust, and long-term success.
We Empower the Frontline Every Day
At Zebra Technologies, it’s more than technology: it’s about people. We’ve spent decades helping frontline workers do their jobs better, faster, and more easily. From designing hardware and software to developing automation solutions, we’re proud to be the foundation for intelligent operations around the world. We believe the work we do makes work better for everyone. That means giving businesses the tools to gain real-time insights, foster collaboration, and optimize workflows.
The future of work isn’t just about technology; it’s about creating environments where employees feel empowered, customers are delighted, and businesses grow sustainably. And the best part? It’s already happening.
If you’re curious about how intelligent operations are reshaping industries and setting businesses up for success, we encourage you to check out this Wall Street Journal article for more insights.
