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July 14, 2023
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When historians review the coming decade, it seems highly likely that they’ll focus on one aspect of our world in particular: technological advancement, and in particular, the emergence of artificial intelligence.
If you want to leverage the amazing new tools that are being released, as well as a few of the established ones, then you’ll need to understand where the benefits lie. Let’s take a look at modern automation and how it can empower your business.
Perhaps the most obvious advantage of an automated workplace is that it’s more productive. When textile workers found themselves replaced with large sewing machines during the industrial revolution, it wasn’t personal; the new way of doing things simply allowed for much greater value to be produced with less input. The same applies to a modern office worker who uses AI-driven tools to improve an email or to populate a spreadsheet.
Across the US, businesses are enjoying new productivity benefits as a result of AI tools – though the picture is slightly more nuanced than the more optimistic viewpoint might suggest.
Machines don’t just do the same work as humans for less money. They often offer other improvements. They might produce less waste, and make mistakes less often – or in a way that can be consistently predicted and addressed. They also tend to be more consistent in general, which is part of what’s made them so ubiquitous on modern production lines.
Certain tasks, almost by definition, put human beings in harm’s way. Machines can minimise the danger in two main ways. They can do the work previously performed by human beings, thereby obviating the need for human workers in problematic environments. What’s more, they can help to analyse data gathered by sensors, including reed switches, and facilitate proactive maintenance of certain other machines.
The gathering of large amounts of data can be a significant source of value for businesses with AI capability. This is where a highly interconnected IoT-enabled facility has a massive advantage. It might gather thousands of data points relating to everything from ambient temperature to throughput. The ‘smart’ factory is becoming the norm, in other words.
Of course, the introduction of machines into a factory might not entirely replace all forms of human labour. Rather, the two might form a synergistic relationship, such that the quality of the work done exceeds anything that could be done by either in isolation. For example, artificial intelligence might be able to work through vast quantities of data and present recommendations that human beings can act upon.
The most direct advantage is a significant boost in productivity. Automated systems and AI tools allow your business to generate greater value and output from the same or even fewer resources, making your operations far more efficient.
Automation cuts costs in several ways. Machines are not just efficient; they also reduce material waste and are less prone to making costly errors. Their consistent performance means fewer defects and a more predictable, budget-friendly operation.
No, that's a common misconception. The most effective use of automation often involves creating a collaborative relationship between people and machines. For example, AI can process complex data to provide recommendations that you and your team can then use to make strategic decisions.
Automation improves safety by taking over tasks that are inherently dangerous for humans. It also enhances equipment reliability through predictive maintenance, using sensors to identify potential issues before they can cause accidents or breakdowns.
Identifying the right automation strategy starts with analysing your current processes to find bottlenecks and high-cost areas. Consulting with a business expert, such as the team at Robin Waite Limited, can provide clarity and help you invest in technology that delivers the best results for your specific needs.
