RoboticsTechnology

Investing in Robots with Low Risk

If you’re considering adding robots, you’re considering a big capital expenditure. Mitigate your risk with the right approach.

The promise of robotics in a warehousing environment is high. They can improve the efficiency of picking, but bringing goods to person; they can optimize your storage options; and perhaps most importantly in today’s difficult labor environment, greatly increase your workers’ productivity, or offer your employees chances to get out of the manual and into more upskilled positions. Whether fixed arms or mobile robots, plenty of organizations are considering adding them to their operations.

But for all the benefits that come with investing in robots, you want to ensure you keep your risks low. How do you strike the right balance of making that big investment with mitigating risk?

First and foremost, you don’t start with the technology. The biggest mistake you can make with robots is getting caught up in the shiny new toy syndrome—buying a robot for the sake of buying a robot. What problem are you trying to solve with the technology? That’s the first question you must ask.

The best starting place, then, is with your use case. Focus on the issues at hand, and then consider the various types of solutions. If, after you can make a proof of concept and have a concrete goal, then it’s time to consider robots as the solution.

Even then, starting slow and incrementally can help lower risks, as well. A big capital expenditure is a lot to bite off and chew. Many robotics systems today offer modularity and flexibility. Start small and add more robots as they improve your operations and justify your investment. You can even look for OEMs who offer the option to bring on extra robots during busy season, sending them back when that period of time is over. Most C-suite pros will demand you can deliver that in two years or less, and by dipping your toes into the water, you can deliver that.

If you’ve selected a robotics system, also work with your OEM to create digital twins for emulating and simulating. This will give your further testing and reassurance that you’re on the right track with your investment.

Also look for value creation from your expenditure. If by putting robots on the floor you are able to elevate your workforce to higher skilled jobs, that’s a win. This is especially true if it gives them incentive to stick around with your company for a longer period.

Keep in mind that all technology moves at a rapid speed, and robots are no exception. As soon as you’ve bought the machines, it seems, they are on their way to outdated. Work with your OEM to ensure that as upgrades happen and technology improves, you have protections if your robot is becoming outdated. Most robots today will have about eight to 10 years in them, but technology advances are moving quickly.

The bottom line: think about why you want robots on your floor, then make the case and move forward. You want the right solution to match the problem.

For further articles from the The Robotics Group (TRG):

Improving your AMR Efficiencies

Humans and Robots Work Well Together

Justifying Robotics, Part II

How to Justify the Cost of Robotics–Part 1

Robot Safety

Podcast: Robotics and Humans: A Synergistic Workforce

Robotics 101

Robotics in the Warehouse

Order Orchestration Optimization Through Robots

Robotics in Logistics, Part 2 – You’ve Decided to Add Robots—Now What?

Robots In Logistics Pt. 1