“bpost is in the midst of a complete metamorphosis. The old perceptions are no longer valid. Data provides useful insights and helps people make strategic decisions in every part of the company.”
- Joren Blontrock, bpost Business Analyst

Data is everywhere

Whatever bpost department you visit, you’ll always find a project that data scientists, data analysts and other data experts are getting their teeth into. The sales and marketing department, for example, where Business Analyst Joren Blontrock conducts marketing campaign assessments. He talks about the new philosophy sweeping though bpost.

Every person in Belgium comes into contact with bpost services in some way. “So our data experts have plenty of data to draw on in their quest for the optimal delivery methods for letters and parcels, say. They can immediately focus on a range of duties that adds value, with full respect for everyone’s privacy and in full compliance with GDPR,” Joren says.

An open, analytical mind

bpost is the ideal environment for data-driven communication-oriented people with an open, analytical mind. Many organisations claim to be future-oriented, but bpost walks the talk. Joren Blontrock again: “Our teams constantly look for ways to keep improving our service and results. Data from the past is good input, but it’s future advancement that drives us.” Joren saw first-hand how data enhances customer service at home. “I live close to a canal,” he says. “I used to have to pick up parcels on the other side of the canal. As the crow flies very close, but I actually had to take quite a detour. Now bpost bases the routes on GPS data, which means I can pick up my parcels on my side of the canal, which is actually quicker.”

Future Lab

As well as tomorrow’s market, bpost also looks at what we can expect even deeper into the future. That led to the establishment of Future Lab two years ago. We live in a fast-changing society, especially with regard to e-commerce. What until recently was inconceivable is now the most normal thing in the world. The Future Lab team develops and tests innovative consumer-centric solutions. In doing so, Future Lab employs lateral thinking. A good example is the hook-up with Zalando to study smart technology to open front doors remotely to drop off and pick up fashion deliveries. Or how about delivering parcels to employees by putting them in the trunk of their car while they’re working.