Automation is quickly becoming the answer for manufacturers seeking greater proactivity, boosted uptime and a stronger ROI — especially amid COVID-19. Key benefits include improving consistency and enabling continuous operation, thanks to equipment that uses precise movements to create a replicable result — without fail, and without ever stopping. Automation can also help to address ongoing challenges around labor shortages, filling gaps where needed and ensuring production does not falter. Yet, the road to an automated system can be a daunting journey, as the addition of new technology comes with significant investments and a new production landscape to navigate. With the right insight and support, manufacturers can adopt automation with greater confidence and experience a more seamless transition.
Whether installing a single piece of equipment or swapping out an entire line, implementing automation is not always a plug-and-play scenario. Without the proper knowledge and preparation, manufacturers are likely to face a few blind spots and run into some issues as a result. Predicting where these issues may occur — and having guidance on the proper solution — is critical to a successful implementation.