Implementing Robotic Automation in MSMEs
Published on : Wednesday 03-05-2023
Robotic automation gives MSMEs that extra edge by amplifying efficiency and productivity, says Mukund Shah.
Tech all around the world has been flourishing and thus the economy continues to grow at an unprecedented rate. It is essential for micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) to keep up with the latest tech trends. To stay in their A league, businesses have to be sustainably smart. The most efficient utilisation of resources can be executed by deploying robotic automation. The concept can be difficult to understand and implement, especially for MSMEs with limited resources. The deskilling and consistency in quality are the driving forces to consider robotic automation. Robotic automation can lead to improved quality and higher productivity for MSMEs.
Understanding robotic automation
Before jumping into execution, here’s a quick overview of what exactly robotic automation is. Robotic automation involves the use of software or hardware solutions to automate tasks that are typically performed by humans. It’s one way to enhance both productivity and efficiency, thus reducing production costs.
By implementing robotic automation, MSMEs can free up employees to focus on higher-value tasks and focus on delivering quality work. A careful evaluation is the key to implementing automation in a way that doesn’t interrupt the existing operations or impact the workforce negatively. With the right approach and planning, MSMEs can successfully implement robotic automation and take advantage of the many benefits it has to offer. The best way to consider the implementation of automation is to calculate payback period of the savings accrued through such automation. Let’s take you through a step-by-step process for implementing robotic automation in your MSME.
Step 1: Identify tasks for automation
The very first step in the implementation of robotic automation is to identify the tasks that can be automated. This can include repetitive tasks, or other tasks that can be standardised. It is important to figure this out because these tasks often consume a lot of time and resources, and can be prone to errors when done manually. By automating these tasks, MSMEs can reduce costs and improve efficiency.
Step 2: Evaluate robotic automation solutions
The next step down the line would be to evaluate the various robotic automation solutions available in the market. This includes software solutions and hardware solutions such as robotic arms. It is important to evaluate the cost, functionality, and ease of use of each solution before making a decision. MSMEs should take into consideration the savings achieved in operating costs through such automation.
Step 3: Implement robotic automation
Once the classification and identification, and its commercial justification for such investments have been done, it is time to implement robotic automation. There are various agencies specialising in this field and share your requirements to them and get best solutions in your case. It is important to ensure that the automation process is seamless. MSMEs should also consider the impact of automation on their workforce and plan accordingly.
Step 4: Monitor and optimise
After implementing robotic automation, it is important to monitor its effectiveness and optimise the process as needed. This may involve making changes to the automation process or identifying new tasks that can be automated. It is also important to ensure that the automation process is delivering the expected benefits, such as increased efficiency and productivity. MSMEs should regularly review their automation processes and make adjustments as necessary.
Step 5: Address concerns of employees
As you implement robotic automation, it is important to address any concerns that your employees may have. Automation is never a threat to employment, in fact it frees up human beings to do more intelligent work. In a nutshell, consider automation wherever employees are expected to use their hands and leave them to use their brains for future improvement and development. By involving your employees in the implementation process and training them to use the new technology, you can help them see the benefits of automation and eliminate any concerns they may have.
Step 6: Plan for the future
As with any new technology, it is important to plan for the future when implementing robotic automation. This includes considering the scalability of your automation process and planning for any future updates or changes to the technology, particularly making automation Industry 4.0 and IoT compatible. It is also important to stay up-to-date with the latest developments in robotic automation to ensure that your MSME remains competitive in the world market.
Robotic automation gives MSMEs that extra edge by amplifying efficiency and productivity. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can successfully implement robotic automation in your MSME and address any concerns that your employees may have. Remember to plan for the future and stay up-to-date with the latest developments in robotic automation to ensure that your MSME remains ahead of the curve. With the right approach and mindset, MSMEs can embrace robotic automation and take advantage of the many benefits it has to offer. This will enable MSMEs to become the world's supplier as they will have the same sophisticated manufacturing techniques as deployed in developed countries.
Mukund Shah, CEO, Affordable Robotic & Automation Pvt Ltd (ARAPL), is a senior management professional with over four decades of experience in reputable organisations such as Electrotech Circuits India Ltd, Hirel Components India Ltd, Expandus Consulting Pvt Ltd and Badve Engineering Ltd. His deep knowledge in the manufacturing industry stems from his previous work experiences. His exposure to domestic and international markets provides additional insights to ARAPL. His experience has also made available to the social organisations as Advisory Board Member of the UB Gujar Foundation (NGO) and Making a Difference (MAD) Foundation, where he focused on sectors such as education, skill development, and earning opportunities for the rural population.
Mr Shah is a highly talented and well-respected industry leader with extensive expertise in strategic growth and transformation. His ability in developing new setups, managing operations from genesis to the next level of productivity, efficiency, and profitability provide a competitive advantage to the organisation. He has served four terms of two years each as President of IPCA (Indian Printed Circuit Associations) and has contributed in development of Electronic Component Industry by way of delegations to various countries and representation to govt policy making bodies.
