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to start planning in January to put the optimal solutions in place before the next peak arrives . Using information about this year ’ s busy period to assess volumes and workflows will highlight the key problems that need to be addressed .
By working with a partner to understand how AMRs could replicate existing processes and where the key areas of benefit could be achieved , a company can confidently plan ahead . What is the ROI for AMRs ? Would the introduction of Pick-to-Light delivery be more beneficial ? How long would it take to develop software to integrate both ? Is there room for a robot to move up an aisle that a human is already in ? Does machinery need to be relocated to allow robots to work effectively ? Planning ahead is key .
Conclusion
There are many simple wins available for companies at every stage of technology maturity . For those that have yet to embrace automation , the addition of an AMR or two can allow a business to reallocate staff to more valuable areas and help to reduce the pressure on recruiting warehouse operatives . The integration of buttons , RFID tags and lights can then be added incrementally to reflect evolving business needs .
Obviously , the more a business automates , the greater the efficiencies gained . But even the smallest automaton will deliver improvements – and deliver further benefits from the existing investment . The key is to understand the ROI opportunities and get started . ■
For a list of the sources used in this article , please contact the editor .
Dr Paul Rivers www . guidanceautomation . com
Guidance Automation is the trusted provider of automation solutions for small to medium businesses , providing expertise and support to unlock their automation potential . The company ’ s knowledge and expertise have been developed over 30 years and its technologies are helping warehouse , distribution , fulfilment / ecommerce , manufacturing and healthcare facilities work smarter .
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