Automation versus Human Labour: A Cost-Modelling and Skill-Gap Analysis for Smart Supply Chain Transformation via the HI-TOP Lens

Automation and digital technologies are rapidly transforming supply chains, but organizations often struggle to determine when automation is cost-effective and when human labour remains the preferable option. Poorly aligned automation investments can increase costs, create skill shortages, and disrupt workers rather than improve performance. This project addresses that challenge by developing practical tools to help organizations make evidence-based, human-centred automation decisions. The project examines the trade-offs between automation, human-intensive, and hybrid supply-chain operations using the HI-TOP (Harmonized Information-Technology and Organizational Performance) framework. HI-TOP emphasizes that successful transformation depends on alignment between workforce skills, information systems, and organizational processes. Using surveys, interviews, and analyses of job postings from Canada and India, the project will examine how automation affects costs, skill requirements, and organizational readiness across different supply-chain contexts.

The main outcome will be a techno-economic and human-capital decision framework that helps organizations evaluate the true costs and benefits of automation, including training, process redesign, and change-management costs. The project will also identify priority skill gaps and upskilling pathways, supporting smoother workforce transitions and more inclusive digital transformation.

Faculty Supervisor:

Parminder Singh Kang

Student:

Partner:

Panjab University

Discipline:

Sociology

Sector:

Technology; Other; Information and Communications Technology (ICT)

University:

MacEwan University

Program: