Power of Automation
Automation provides a chance to address a range of operational needs, and it doesn't have to be disruptive or expensive. From Autonomous Mobile Robots (AMRs) to Pick-to-Light solutions and Warehouse Execution Systems, with the right approach, companies can embrace automation step-by-step, adding value and building confidence with every small change.
Transforming productivity: Autonomous mobile robots (AMRs) can reduce the time spent by workers walking around the warehouse facility. Indeed, AMRs are incredibly flexible, with add-on options, such as picking arms, barcode readers, cameras or grabbing mechanisms, meaning they can be deployed in different areas of the warehouse as required. Software solutions such as Warehouse Execution Systems help to optimise operations and Pick-to-Light technology can transform the speed and accuracy of stock picks, improving responsiveness and reducing the costs associated with unnecessary product returns.
Improving staff well-being: Manual handling injuries are still surprisingly widespread within retail, with around one million working days lost due to handling injuries every year. In addition to the impact on staff, this is a significant business expense: what is it costing in delayed order fulfilment when staff are off sick or have to be replaced by temporary staff? Automation can radically reduce the need for employees to carry heavy items, as AMRs take over much of the heavy lifting and carrying. By reducing the physical demands on staff, a company not only cuts the risk of injury but also frees up staff to undertake added value roles – such as quality assurance.
Improving seasonal agility: Adding robots also provides contingency, especially at peak season, with the chance to rent additional units giving retailers a quick, low-cost way to scale up resources. In addition, the simplicity of Pick-to-Light systems, where lights guide staff to the right location for each pick or put, means that staff require minimal training to become productive. Even occasional agency staff can be as effective, efficient and accurate as long- standing employees.
Getting Started
The good news for companies is that these technologies can be added without disruption or upheaval. It is a simple process to add one or two AMRs into one area of operation to reduce the amount of time spent walking by humans. An AMR can be used at the end of an aisle, for example, to then transfer goods to the packing area, allowing staff to concentrate on picking rather than walking miles around the warehouse. There are no complex integrations to worry about. An AMR can be summoned by an individual pressing a button when the goods are ready to be moved; or triggered by a simple light beam.
Not only can this automation be introduced seamlessly to the existing set up, but AMRs can even be trialled without cost with the right business partner. The only change that may be required is to clean up the environment: while AMRs can navigate around empty boxes and polythene shrink wrap, they will have to slow down to avoid these hazards, thus reducing their overall efficiency. Training staff to tidy up as they go is a valuable step in achieving a more effective human/AMR operation.
Once a company has experienced the ease with which an AMR or two can work side by side with human staff, the business may then evaluate the benefits of adding Pick-to-Light to reduce the error rate and improve efficiency. Or think about adding warehouse execution to further automate and optimise tasks. The entire automation journey can be achieved step by step, reflecting a business' needs and investment options – with the added benefit that the entire organisation gains both incremental benefits and technology confidence.
Conclusion
Automation is becoming essential. When retail competitors can achieve a business model that is not only far more responsive to customer needs, but also at a lower cost base, the pressure to adapt is growing fast. And for any company struggling to work out where to prioritise, there is help available. Working with a partner who can assess the current operational environment and suggest where an AMR could reduce human miles or take on the heavy lifting, or why Pick-to-Light could resolve picking errors, can help to refine plans.
With the addition of a free AMR trial, concerns regarding both cost and disruption are addressed. Retail and logistics operations can confidently explore the power of automation to support the existing human workforce to be both productive and safe. It's time to get started on automation.
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