Oftentimes the idea of implementing automated machines into the workforce can raise questions amongst employees.

• How will this affect our workflow?
• Will I lose my job?
• What is the ROI?

The truth is – automated machines and manufacturing go hand-in-hand. And rather than “cutting back” on jobs, automated machinery allows your employees to work in a safer, more efficient workforce while implementing higher production rates and increased productivity.

Automated Equipment Reduces Employee Turnover and Training Costs

One large struggle for many manufacturers is finding reliable employment. It is common for those in the manufacturing industry to work long, strenuous workweeks. Many tasks (that luckily automated equipment and robots can perform for you) can cause strain on entry-level manufacturing employees. Even in the most comfortable of environments, performing a high workload of repetitive tasks for long hours, sometimes more than five days a week, is not a desirable or sustainable situation for many entry-level employees long-term.

This can result in high employee turnover rates, resulting in extended project timelines and slow turnaround times for clients. What is the result of having to hire new employees – time and time again? Increased training costs and time.

This is where automated equipment and robotics can help substantially. Automated equipment requires nothing but a power source and an operator (or two, depending on the machine and your goals, which we always take into account). Employees can be trained to operate systems, which will result in:

• Less physical strain on employees
• Increased worker safety in the workplace
• Higher output and increased productivity
• Consistency in production

Improve the Productivity of Your Employees

Studies show that repetitive tasks, when performed by people, grow less effective as time goes on (Harvard Business Review, 2017). Human bodies tire, but automated equipment and robots do not. When you utilize automated equipment to perform repetitive tasks, you offer your employees the opportunity to perform at a higher capacity. The implementation of automated equipment into your manufacturing processes means that your employees are left to complete tasks of greater value, and you can begin transitioning them into roles in which they can continue to better develop their skills and excel.

Improve the Safety of Your Employees

Worker safety is a high priority for many manufacturers and an important reason to consider implementing automated equipment into your processes. Automated equipment can remove workers from the tedious, and sometimes hazardous, tasks and in turn protect their physical well-being. Workers can then be given the opportunity to focus on increasing their skill set through other tasks within the company.

Improve the Consistency of Your Product

When it comes to high-volume orders, automated systems play an important role. Allowing your systems to perform more of the strenuous, physical labor can allow for less variability and greater control and use of materials, resulting in less scrap.

Automated systems are even more attractive when it comes to product consistency and repeatability in production are a top priority. We get it, building a reputation based on the strength of your goods is important for every manufacturer. No one (yes, no one) wants to be known for a product that is varying or lacking in quality. Automated equipment and robotics, when working properly, give you peace-of-mind and assurance that you will have the same product every time. This can result in reduced lead times, reduced product defects and increased customer satisfaction (a win-win for all). Consistent products and quick turnaround times will help your business grow and help you deliver fantastic service to your clients.

Want to hear from others who have seen success with automated equipment? Click here.

If this is the year you are ready to set new goals, achieve them and take your manufacturing processes to the next level, let’s talk. You can contact us by clicking here, calling (419.238.2520).