Businesses Adopting Automation to Address Labor Shortages and Increase Productivity: HowToRobot Study
Businesses around the world are facing labor shortages and are turning to automation as a solution. A recent report from HowToRobot revealed that the primary motivation behind adopting automation in 2023 is not to replace workers, but to augment scarce labor.
In fact, 80% of respondents said that their automation projects are intended to free employees from manual tasks and move them to more value-adding activities. This signifies a shift in perspective, with businesses viewing robotics and automation as a supplement to human labor rather than a replacement.
Labor shortages have been a significant challenge in North America and Europe, with job opening rates in the manufacturing sector almost double the pre-pandemic average. The COVID-19 pandemic exacerbated these shortages, and they have continued at elevated levels in 2023.
The second biggest motivation for adopting automation in 2023 was to increase productivity. Robots can reduce the labor hours needed to create the same output, enabling companies to increase wages, reduce prices, and grow their profits. This is especially important in a high inflation environment, where productivity plays a crucial role in businesses’ competitiveness.
Improving product quality and uniformity, as well as enhancing working conditions, were also key goals for businesses adopting automation. By automating demanding tasks and hazardous environments, businesses can improve employee well-being and contribute to a more sustainable operation.
According to HowToRobot, businesses should not delay in planning their future robotics investments. The time from starting an automation project to signing an agreement with a vendor can vary significantly, and starting early can help businesses reap the benefits of automation sooner.
Overall, the adoption of automation is driven by the need to mitigate labor shortages, increase productivity, improve product quality, and enhance working conditions. By investing in automation, businesses can not only address current challenges but also position themselves for future success in a rapidly changing market.