Many organizations are looking to take advantage of the benefits of automated manufacturing processes. A well-developed industrial automation system can provide your organization with many operational improvements, including:
- Better product quality
- Increased process efficiency
- Higher material throughput
- More reliable product consistency
- Reduced operating costs over the long term
The pressure to upgrade or make the switch is accompanied by hesitation due to the many choices of vendors and equipment and even uses. Many companies let uncertainty turn into inaction. These companies can benefit from working with a trusted advisor to help identify opportunities to effectively transition to industrial automation, guiding them through the best options to meet their current and future needs.
Partners like Industry MAX can be especially helpful in screening options. We can maintain a big-picture vision for your project, as opposed to vendors who may focus on equipment without providing full service.
Dispelling the Myths
There are some recurring misconceptions about industrial automation that should be corrected so they don't prevent you from building a strong program.
Myth: Industrial Automation Replaces Employees
One of the most common misconceptions is that automation replaces people and that companies adopting it will fire valuable members of their labor force family. In fact, these computers with automation capabilities require people to program and run them - people who understand the manufacturing process. Developing industrial automation systems creates opportunities for employee advancement and growth.
Myth: Companies can develop automation on their own
Another common misconception is that tech-savvy employees can develop automation on their own by cobbling together a system using inexpensive equipment and learning to program it themselves. There may be upfront cost savings when tackling automation in-house, but in the long run, companies usually end up spending more to integrate and upgrade piecemeal systems to continue to meet their needs.
The truth is, your system is more than just the sum of its parts. Creating an effective and efficient industrial automation system requires vision, experience and technical expertise to apply correctly.