“Hardware is typically more expensive to build than software and needs the requirements to be frozen and faultless before build much more than software where bugs can be fixed via a patch or OTA or over-the-air update and the capital needed, and time-to-market are often much greater for hardware than software startups (Quora, 2023).” One of the hottest areas of robotics innovation is the last mile delivery sector, where companies are leveraging robotics and artificial intelligence (AI) to revolutionize the final leg of the delivery process, helping to solve a major labor shortage in Canada and the US. While software AI businesses have their own unique challenges, this blog post aims to shed light on why running a last mile delivery robotics business is considerably more demanding and complex and needs more attention. Let's delve into the specifics and explore the key differences.
Unlike software AI businesses, last mile delivery robotics companies operate in the physical world, where unpredictable factors can significantly impact operations. These businesses need to navigate diverse terrains, varying weather conditions, complex urban infrastructures, and unexpected obstacles like construction zones, road closures, or accidents. Software AI, on the other hand, operates in a controlled virtual environment, devoid of these physical challenges. For example: our robot BUBS attempting to traverse a crowded sidewalk, avoid pedestrians, and successfully reach its destination faces numerous complexities that software AI doesn't have to contend with. It must have sophisticated sensor systems to perceive its surroundings accurately, make real-time decisions, and adapt to dynamic situations.
While both software AI and last mile delivery robotics businesses face regulatory considerations, the latter encounters a more intricate web of rules and regulations. Delivery robots must comply with local government laws some of which are still a grey area or, in many cases, yet to be formed. These apart there are traffic laws for the sidewalk, pedestrian safety regulations, and navigate legal frameworks related to autonomous vehicles. This entails close collaboration with government agencies, extensive testing, and continuous compliance monitoring. BUBS must operate within a patchwork of regulations that differ between cities and countries. BUBS facees unique challenges when expanding into new regions due to varying regulations, forcing investment of time, resources, and expertise to ensure compliance. In contrast, software AI businesses often have fewer legal barriers to entry and can scale more easily.
Hardware is an integral part of last mile delivery robot operation, and managing it presents an additional layer of complexity. Companies need to develop, maintain, and upgrade physical robots, ensuring they remain operational, reliable, and efficient. Hardware failures, repairs, and logistics associated with robot deployment and maintenance require specialized expertise, facilities, and resources. While a software AI business can release updates or bug fixes over the air, a last mile delivery robotics business may need to retrieve a malfunctioning robot from the field, diagnose the problem, replace faulty components, and return it to service. This involves logistics, skilled technicians, and inventory management, all of which demand substantial investments and ongoing attention.
In the last mile delivery space, customer interaction and satisfaction become vital components for success. Ensuring timely and accurate deliveries, managing customer expectations, handling potential delivery issues or returns, and maintaining a high level of customer service require a delicate balance of human touch and technology. While software AI businesses may predominantly rely on digital interactions, last mile delivery robotics companies need to blend physical and digital experiences seamlessly. A last mile delivery robotics business needs to address customer concerns about robot interactions, address any potential safety issues, and provide real-time customer support for issues that may arise during deliveries. Building trust with customers becomes paramount, and challenges such as customer acceptance, user education, and addressing public perceptions must be overcome.
While both software AI and last mile delivery businesses offer unique opportunities, the latter presents a significantly more challenging landscape. Overcoming physical environment constraints, navigating complex regulations, managing hardware maintenance, and delivering exceptional customer experiences demand substantial investments, expertise, and a robust operational framework. As the last mile delivery robotics industry continues to evolve, businesses must address these complexities while leveraging the power of artificial intelligence and automation to transform the future of logistics.
The good news is that it's possible. Companies in a variety of industries are seeing great success today in robotic deployments. Finding the right partners and ecosystem to guide through the robot experience is critical to ensure solid adoption and a positive ROI. With an experienced robotics team, a customer-obsessed attitude, and a bit of fun along the way, the future is exciting.
References:
How much harder is a hardware startup vs a software startup? if you are in business primarily to make money, why do hardware over software?. Quora. (n.d.). https://www.quora.com/How-much-harder-is-a-hardware-startup-vs-a-software-startup-If-you-are-in-business-primarily-to-make-money-why-do-hardware-over-software