Omar Marar, a data analyst based in Warren, Michigan, has spent years refining the art of automation in the logistics industry. With a Master’s degree in Business Analytics from Michigan State University, he combines technical know-how with a business-first mindset to streamline operations, reduce costs, and save time.
Through his work with complex datasets and process-heavy workflows, Omar has uncovered several core principles that can help organisations harness automation effectively. In this blog, he shares his top tips for using data to automate business processes that not only save resources but also increase productivity and accuracy.
Key Takeaways
- Identify repetitive manual tasks as prime automation targets.
- Ensure clean, reliable data before automating anything.
- Choose tools based on compatibility and task complexity.
- Build automations that scale and adapt over time.
- Communicate benefits clearly to encourage team adoption.
1. Start by Identifying Repetitive, Manual Tasks
Before diving into code or platforms, Omar recommends starting with observation.
“The best automation ideas come from the floor—watch what people do repeatedly and ask, ‘Can this be done with data instead?’”
In logistics, Omar noticed that teams spent hours each day creating shipment status reports manually. By identifying these pain points, he was able to design automated solutions using Python and Excel VBA that pulled data, cleaned it, and generated real-time dashboards.
Start small, and look for areas where repetition eats into time:
- Manual report generation
- Data entry and transfers
- Scheduling and alerts
2. Clean, Reliable Data Is Non-Negotiable
Automation is only as good as the data it depends on. Omar stresses the importance of building a clean and consistent data pipeline before building automation layers.
“If your data is messy or inconsistent, your automation will simply replicate the mess—faster.”
He recommends using validation checks, standardised data formats, and automated data-cleaning scripts as foundational steps. Whether you're pulling data from APIs or internal databases, ensure you can trust the input before automating the output.
3. Use the Right Tools for the Right Jobs
There’s no one-size-fits-all tool for business automation. Omar often uses a combination of tools based on the complexity of the task:
- Python for scripting workflows and scheduling tasks
- SQL for querying and joining data tables
- Power BI/Tableau for real-time dashboards
- Excel VBA for lightweight automations in familiar environments
Knowing which tool to use saves development time and ensures maintainability.
“Use what integrates best with your current systems. Don’t automate yourself into a silo.”
4. Build with Scalability and Flexibility in Mind
Omar emphasises building automations that can grow with the business. Hardcoding specifics (like date ranges, column names, or user IDs) may work initially but can create long-term maintenance challenges.
Instead, he advises:
- Use parameterised scripts
- Make workflows modular
- Document clearly for handovers
This approach allows your automation to be reused, improved, or integrated with larger systems down the line.
5. Communicate the Value of Automation Clearly
Automation only succeeds when people trust and use it. Omar focuses on transparency and collaboration when introducing new automated processes.
He involves users early, explains how the automation works, and demonstrates the value in measurable terms—like time saved, errors reduced, or decision speed improved.
“People fear automation will replace them. Show them how it empowers them instead.”
Final Thoughts
Automation isn’t just about eliminating tasks—it’s about unlocking time and energy for more strategic work. Omar Marar’s approach proves that with clean data, the right tools, and thoughtful planning, businesses can transform their operations for the better.
His process is practical, scalable, and rooted in real-world success in the logistics sector. Whether you're a small team or a large enterprise, adopting these tips can help you embrace automation with confidence and clarity.
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