Tomorrow's transport planner need not fear AI

Written by: Niels

But it will actually make them smarter

The transport sector is facing major changes. Labour productivity in the Netherlands has been under discussion for years. Within logistics, too, the call to work more efficiently is becoming louder and louder. Transport planners are regularly mentioned as functions that would be at risk due to automation. But is this justified? Or is there actually an opportunity there?

According to think tank DenkWerk, whose members include chief economist Barbara Baarsma of PwC, there are still too many low-productivity jobs in the Netherlands. The labour market is tight, and we need hands in healthcare, housing and other sectors that add social value. Baarsma explicitly mentioned on [NPO Radio 1 the job of transport planner as a role that would be easy to automate.

‘For the people themselves, the work is very valuable,’ said Baarsma, ‘but for society as a whole, the work yields less than if they were working in highly productive positions.’ According to the researchers, the number of planners could fall by about 10 per cent over the next 10 years, due to automation or relocation abroad.

Is it really that black and white?

As soon as it comes to automation and AI, fear quickly strikes. After all, if an algorithm can do it too, why would you still need a planner? That reasoning is understandable, but leaves out an important point: AI is not a replacement for the planner but it is instead a tool.

During a conversation with Peters Skov of UC Group, it became clear that the power of AI lies in supporting human decisions. Route optimisation, real-time adjustments, insight into expected peak times - these are tasks where a planner can benefit from smart tools. And precisely in a sector where productivity is under pressure, technology can make all the difference.

Planners as smart linking points

The modern planner has long since ceased to be someone who tries to get planning done with just Excel and a phone. Instead, it is increasingly someone who uses data, software and real-time insights to make complex decisions. Think:

Automatically generated routes, adjusted for traffic and occupancy
Smart scenario analyses for peak days
KPI dashboards for better overview and adjustment

Agility is key

The future demands agility, from companies and from people. Transport planners who develop into digital co-thinkers will soon be indispensable. And that does not require a rigorous career switch, but rather a willingness to embrace new technology.

Instead of fearing AI, planners can use technology to strengthen their profession. By investing in smarter planning systems now, logistics companies and their employees are taking steps towards a more future-proof sector.

In conclusion

Automation and AI are changing the world, that is one thing for sure. But not every change means loss. Sometimes, on the contrary, it is an invitation to grow. The transport planner of tomorrow is tech-savvy, collaborative and indispensable. In talking to UC Group's Peter Skov, it became clear: AI is not there to replace people, but to make them smarter. The planner who understands this is golden.

Do you dare to look at how technology can enhance your work? Get inspired by the full interview with Peter Skov and see how smart planning software like RouteLogic can support your work. Completely free of charge!

So AI does not take over the work, but takes out the unnecessary noise. Less time spent on repetitive operations, more room for exceptions, customer questions and strategic thinking.