May 2024 Volume 6

AUTOMATION

global levels, automation and robots may impact workers’ mental well-being. “While these technologies can in fact increase productivity and effi ciency, they may also increase job displacement and insecurity and affect job satisfaction,” it reads. “Workers may perceive new tech nologies as a threat to their jobs.” The key to turning these challenges into opportunities lies in open dialogue and transparent communication. By regularly updating employees on these strategic plans, objectives and progress of auto mation, businesses can create an environment where everyone is informed and involved, transforming uncertainty into clarity. Engagement is more than just keeping everyone in the loop. It’s about making them feel that they are an active part of the journey. Inviting employees to share their ideas and feedback gives them a stake in the process, making the transition a collective endeavor rather than a top-down mandate. It’s about creating a platform where every voice can contribute to shaping the future of their workplace. Training and development emerge as cornerstones of this transition. Tailored programs designed to equip teams with new skills reflect a commitment to their growth, assuring them that automation isn’t a harbinger of obsolescence, but an opportunity for personal and professional development. Similarly, identifying new career path ways within the automated landscape reinforces the message that their future within the company is bright and filled with possibilities. The Future of Automation in Manufacturing The landscape of manufacturing stands on the brink of a transfor mative era, propelled forward by emerging trends and technologies that promise to redefine the industry's very fabric. As we look to the future, it's clear that automation will play a pivotal role, not just as a tool for enhancing efficiency, but as a cornerstone of innovation and competitive advantage in a rapidly evolving global market. Emerging Trends and Technologies on the Horizon Advancements in artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning are poised to propel automation in manufacturing into uncharted territories, elevating the entire sector to unprecedented levels of inno vation and efficiency. Rutherford Wilson, Chief Product Officer at MachineMetrics, encapsulates this seismic shift with compelling insight in an article published by the company earlier this year. "AI is reshaping the manufacturing landscape in ways previously imagined only in science fiction. The journey of AI in manufacturing is not just ongoing; it's accelerating." This acceleration signifies a pivotal moment in the industry, where the integration of AI becomes not just an advantage, but a necessity for staying relevant and competitive. The stakes for manufacturers are high. Hesitation or reluctance to embrace these technologies could leave them trailing in the wake

of more forward-thinking competitors. The urgency of this shift is underscored by data from Wipflir, which reveals that 41% of manu facturers are planning to invest in artificial intelligence solutions in 2024. This statistic is not just a testament to the growing recogni tion of AI's potential, but also a clear indicator that the race towards digital transformation in manufacturing is accelerating. Manufacturers must recognize that integrating AI into their oper ations is no longer a speculative venture, but a strategic impera tive. The ability of AI to analyze vast quantities of data for insights, predict maintenance needs before they become critical, and opti mize production processes for maximum efficiency represents a leap forward in operational capability. As we stand on the cusp of this new era, the message is clear: the future of manufacturing will be defined by those who leverage AI and machine learning to innovate, improve, and lead. The journey ahead is fraught with challenges, but also brimming with opportu nities for those willing to embrace the change. Potential Impact on Industries and the Global Supply Chain The ripple effects of automation are felt across industries and the global supply chain. Automation increases production capacity while maintaining high quality standards, enabling businesses to meet growing consumer demands more efficiently. This enhanced capacity has a stabilizing effect on supply chains, making them more resilient to disruptions such as those experienced during the global pandemic. For context, in 2020, Ernst & Young LLP conducted a survey that provided a revealing snapshot of the state of preparedness within the global supply chain at the onset of the pandemic. The respon dents, senior-level supply chain executives from a broad spectrum of sectors — ranging from consumer products and retail to life sciences, industrial products, automotive, and high-tech — represented orga nizations boasting revenues in excess of $1 billion. The findings were stark: a mere 2% of the companies surveyed felt fully prepared for the pandemic's impact. The repercussions were significant, with 57% of respondents experiencing serious disruptions. Moreover, the survey painted a grim picture of the pandemic's overall impact on businesses: 72% reported negative effects, split between 17% who faced significant negative consequences and 55% who encountered mostly negative outcomes. Embracing automation emerges as a critical strategy in fortifying manufacturing and supply chains against unforeseen disruptions, much like those witnessed during the global pandemic. By inte grating advanced automation technologies, companies can transcend traditional operational vulnerabilities, enabling a level of agility and resilience previously unattainable. This strategic embrace not only enhances production capabilities and quality but also ensures that supply chains are robust enough to withstand future challenges, reducing the likelihood of being caught unprepared in the face of global crises.

FIA MAGAZINE | MAY 2024 46