Transportation & Logistics International Volume 11 - Issue 5 | Page 9

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 optimize 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 organization 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 prioritize , 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 . ■
For a list of the sources used in this article , please contact the editor .
Dr Paul Rivers www . guidanceautomation . com
Dr Paul Rivers is CEO of Guidance Automation , an award-winning pioneer of autonomous mobile robot technologies . Its suite of flexible and robust products is at the forefront of innovation , featuring autonomous material transportation , light-directed handling , and warehouse execution and control systems . It incorporates conveyors , sorters , robotic arms , and numerous other state-of-the-art automation technologies to deliver a comprehensive and bespoke solution for each unique business application .
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