3 Tips for Supporting Robotic Automation

The sooner you accept ownership for your new robotic automation systems, the more successful your transition will be.

We understand that automation can be a big change for companies.

However, you’ll need to be prepared for how you’re going to manage and support your new automation systems once our robotics engineering team leaves. Continue reading to learn our tips for implementing automation technology.

1.) Take Ownership

Our automation engineers can’t stay on site forever to manage day-to-day operations. For this reason, it’s important that you take ownership of your new industrial automation systems early in the process. The more you know about your robotic automation systems, the more you’ll be able to help and provide information in the event of an emergency repair.

Make sure your team understands how to troubleshoot problems. That way, if something goes wrong, you’ll be able to limit how long a mandatory shut-down for repairs lasts. Training employees how to handle and troubleshoot the new automation system can boost confidence and help employees feel pride in their new roles.

Making sure your team is prepared to work alongside robotic automation is just one of many ways you’ll need to take ownership. When a company makes significant changes to its day-to-day operations, it’s important that you set a good example as the leader. Your employees will look to you for guidance on how to use new automation technology.

2.) Invest in Training

Many successful companies say that their most important assets are employees. If more clients adopted this mindset, we wouldn’t see the mass confusion that can sometimes happen when companies aren’t prepared. It’s important that you invest in training so employees feel prepared before robotic automation is introduced.

You cannot rush training. Some employees are going to need more training than others to fully grasp how automation changes their jobs. We strongly recommend companies offer more than one training session so employees can build confidence in their new roles. Your employees are no doubt feeling stressed about the new changes to their jobs, which is why it’s important to make sure they have all the information they need to thrive.

3.) Create Incentives

With the current trend of humans being replaced with robots on the factory floor, it’s natural for your employees to feel apprehensive or even resistant toward automation. Your job is to make sure employees understand the benefits of working alongside robot technology.

It’s been our experience that people are most resistant to change when they don’t see any benefit. Fortunately, you have an opportunity during the planning phase to get your team used to the idea of robotic automation. You’ll have less resistance if you discuss how automation will improve workplace safety and make your employees’ jobs easier.

Employees are also more likely to accept change when there are incentive or recognition programs in place. Make sure that your employees understand how robotic automation is a natural step to achieve your company’s mission.

Our robotics engineering team in Grand Rapids will be more than happy to answer any questions you might have about your new system. To request your quote for robotic automation, call First Choice Robotics at (616) 345-0887.