In today’s digital era, where the pace of business and production is accelerating, managing assets, inventory, and operations has become a critical factor for efficiency. Zebra Technologies, a global leader in frontline solutions, has released an important study in collaboration with Oxford Economics, offering valuable insights into the impact of automation, artificial intelligence (AI), and data on workflow optimization.

The study shows that organizations investing in the right modern technologies can boost workforce productivity by up to 20%, while also improving profitability and customer satisfaction. This is clear evidence of the importance of digital transformation, particularly in the face of labour shortages and rising market demands.

A global study commissioned by zebra and conducted by Oxford economics

To ensure objective data, Zebra Technologies commissioned Oxford Economics to conduct a large-scale global study combining surveys and econometric analysis. The research engaged 1,000 senior executives across key industries, including:

• Retail (400 respondents)

• Manufacturing (400 respondents)

• Transportation & Logistics (200 respondents)

Participants came from both developed and emerging markets such as the United States, Mexico, the UK, Germany, India, Japan, Australia, and New Zealand. The survey focused on core operational areas, including:

• Inventory management

• Quality control

• Delivery and logistics operations

• Materials handling

• Loss prevention processes

Oxford Economics applied regression analysis to determine the correlation between workflow improvements and key financial performance indicators.

Positive impacts on productivity and customer satisfaction

Key findings from the research include:

• Retail businesses reported a 21% increase in customer satisfaction after improving frontline workflows.

• Manufacturing companies recorded a 19% boost in labour productivity.

• Transportation & logistics firms achieved a 21% increase in productivity through operational enhancements.

These figures demonstrate that investments in automation, AI, and data-driven solutions deliver not only operational efficiency but also stronger customer experiences—an essential advantage in today’s competitive landscape.

Economic benefits: revenue growth and sustainable profitability

Oxford Economics also estimated the financial potential if leading enterprises embrace frontline workflow transformation. If the top 20 companies in the Forbes Global 2000 from each sector (retail, manufacturing, transportation & logistics) achieved significant workflow improvements, each could generate on average:

• An additional USD 3 billion in revenue

• Around USD 120 million in added profit

This underscores that the benefits go beyond productivity gains, directly strengthening financial performance and long-term competitiveness.

The critical role of AI and automation

A key highlight of the study is the role of artificial intelligence. AI enables real-time monitoring and deep insights, empowering faster, more accurate decision-making.

Many retailers are already experimenting with AI to:

• Prevent product shrinkage

• Identify risks earlier in the supply chain

• Optimize inventory management

By reducing time, costs, and errors, AI enhances the overall effectiveness of business operations—marking a growing trend of “AI-powered management,” where people and technology collaborate to achieve optimal results.

 

RFID and computer vision

Alongside AI, the study emphasized the importance of RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) and computer vision technologies.

For years, RFID has proven effective in asset tracking, inventory control, and operational management. When combined with computer vision, businesses gain real-time visibility, minimize errors, and optimize workflows more comprehensively.

These technologies are increasingly becoming the backbone of industries such as retail, manufacturing, and logistics.

 

Zebra Technologies: comprehensive solutions across industries

Beyond research, Zebra offers a wide portfolio of solutions across multiple sectors:

• Warehousing – streamlined inventory control, faster order picking, and improved efficiency.

• Manufacturing – optimized workflows, fewer errors, and higher productivity.

• Retail – enhanced stock visibility, reduced shrinkage, and better customer experiences.

• Healthcare – improved patient monitoring, medication management, and asset tracking.

With these solutions, Zebra has become a trusted digital transformation partner for thousands of enterprises worldwide.

Brand message: Better Every Day

Zebra Technologies recently unveiled its new brand message “Better Every Day.” This highlights the company’s commitment to delivering intelligent, connected solutions that continuously improve performance, agility, and workforce adaptability.

In a time of labour shortages and rising consumer expectations, Zebra enables organizations to respond quickly while maintaining peak operational efficiency.

Leadership statement

Bill Burns, CEO of Zebra Technologies, stated:

“Zebra Technologies supports organizations of all sizes around the globe in continuously improving processes and adapting to change. Our portfolio includes solutions that connect frontline workers, track assets, and enable smart automation designed to meet the demands of modern workflows and improve everyday performance.”

This reflects Zebra’s vision of being a reliable partner for enterprises navigating digital transformation.

Conclusion

The joint study by Zebra Technologies and Oxford Economics reaffirms the essential role of modern technologies AI, RFID, and computer vision in driving workflow transformation. The common goal: greater productivity, higher profitability, and improved customer experiences.

In an increasingly competitive market, early adopters of technology will gain a decisive edge. With its mission “Better Every Day,” Zebra continues to position itself as a strategic partner, helping businesses of all sizes achieve greater agility, efficiency, and sustainable growth.

The Beetech advantage

With over 12 years of experience in the AutoID industry, Beetech is proud to be one of Vietnam’s leading providers of RFID and intelligent device solutions.

Our team of skilled engineers accompanies businesses at every stage from consulting and deployment to full lifecycle support ensuring stable RFID operations and maximum value.

Let Beetech be your trusted partner in building smarter management systems, strengthening competitiveness, and advancing further in the digital age.

📧 Email: info@beetech.com.vn
🌐 Website: https://beetech.com.vn

See more products: Here
Source: Thanh Luân. (2025, September 26). Zebra: Workflow automation boosts productivity by up to 20%. Thanh Niên.