Automation. Why robots create benefits for workers and help keep production local.

It’s quite hard to sometimes explain to people unfamiliar with what is happening in logistics, manufacturing and supply chain why robots contribute to the wellbeing of persons and the safeguarding of any production environment. Many think that robots are only out there to replace human beings. They couldn’t be more wrong.

Robots never question unattractive and hard physical work

First of all it’s a fact that it’s extremely hard to find warehouse or logistics collaborators and when you attract the right ones, 9 out of 10 will not last past the first 6 months as the work is often too repetitive, not always safe and often very physical.  This is where robots and robotization comes in.

The European Space Agency stated in one of its project calls that robots can work in any environment, eliminating dangerous jobs for humans because they are capable of working in hazardous environments. They can handle lifting heavy loads, move toxic substances and work on repetitive tasks. This has helped companies to prevent many accidents, also saving time and money.  Robots help co-workers in a positive sense.

Robotization’s positive impact on human well-being is primarily driven by its ability to free individuals from monotonous and physically demanding tasks, leading to increased efficiency, safety, quality of life, and opportunities for personal and professional growth.  

Just like with anything related to automation we always have two sides to every story meaning that yes some jobs might disappear but jobs will get safer, healthier and more rewarding as human beings will take ownership of more value added functions, functions that require more intelligence and better skills.

This will allow companies to focus more on supporting employees to learn additional skills, take ownership of more rewarding tasks and co-manage and support the roles assumed by robots as these employees have great insights and a better experience in how roles are filled in.

Robots are critical in keeping production in high wage countries

The second key element is that robots are key for any production oriented society, to be able to compete with low cost countries and keep industry in high wage countries, automation is the key. Automation will fill in roles that are hard to find or can help run a factory or support operations without necessarily expanding the workforce and being able to manage higher volumes with the same workforce.

This will allow operations in more expensive countries to produce goods at costs often comparable to what it would cost to produce them in Asia or other regions while at the same time keeping full control on the supply chain and quality thus creating additional benefits.

Automation is the crucial answer to guarantee a lower dependency on other economies just like it is the answer to many HR challenges including keeping good collaborators and finding the right ones.

Both can work together to achieve company’s goals – whatever the size of the business – and if complemented by automation in the entire logistics process than the benefits for workers, companies and society can be even bigger.

To understand how robots support businesses, talk to us and contact Tractonomy Robotics here.