In this episode of the Robot Forward Warehousing Podcast, we’re joined by Naveen Chandra, Director of Distribution at EssilorLuxottica, as he shares his journey and insights from years of implementing warehouse robotics across diverse industries. From strategic planning to on-the-ground decision-making, Naveen dives into the realities of warehouse automation and what it truly takes to bring robotics to life in complex environments.

This episode covers:

• Strategies for Robotics Enablement: Naveen reveals his approach to aligning robotics with operational goals, balancing innovation with practical requirements to ensure long-term success.
• Stakeholder Dynamics in Robotics: From maintenance teams to operators, we explore the critical roles that each team plays in the robotics ecosystem and how their feedback shapes effective deployment.
• Challenges in Brownfield Warehouses: Implementing robotics in existing, active warehouses comes with unique obstacles—Naveen shares lessons from navigating these hurdles and adapting solutions to real-world conditions.
• The Role of Maintenance and Operator Feedback: Robotics is as much about people as it is about machines. Naveen discusses how operator insights and maintenance strategies help fine-tune robotics for better performance.
• Simulation and Decision-Making Parameters: We examine how Naveen leverages tools and core decision-making parameters, balancing cost, scalability, and functionality, to choose the right robotics solutions for various applications.

Naveen also brings a unique perspective on measuring robotics success, touching on non-obvious indicators that reveal the impact of robotics beyond efficiency gains and cost savings. We dig into moments of unexpected outcomes and how his experiences have reshaped his view of robotics’ role in the modern warehouse.

As the episode concludes, Naveen leaves us with crucial advice for warehouse operators and decision-makers considering robotics.

Whether you’re a robotics engineer, a warehouse operator, or simply interested in the future of warehousing, this conversation offers practical takeaways and fresh insights for anyone involved in the world of warehouse robotics.