This November, we’re thankful for…great customers! Although this may sound cheesy, dedicated customers are truly what makes the difference during a successful automation implementation. Warehouse automation projects require customers with a sense of ownership. Whether you are installing a large conveyor and sortation system or implementing pick modules, AGVs, or collaborative robots, the customer must have identified at least one or two employees ready to gain an in-depth knowledge of these automation solutions, ready to take charge. See what we, ISS Material Handling, mean below.
Our sales cycle begins with the necessary exchange of hard data that is key to designing a material handling solution. An important part of this step is having the experienced integrator vet the customer to ensure that they are financially prepared for the system needed. At that stage, they also need to ensure that they have the capability and resources dedicated to getting the most out of their system, specifically personnel. In general, if resources (capital and employee support) are not in order, then an automation solution may not be the best project to pursue. It’s important as integrators to know that the customer has identified owners of the equipment and has expertise in house that is willing to learn and understand how to properly run and maintain the equipment.
As stated above, customers generally need to have one or two designated employees who are technically invested in the success of the automation project. Managers who ensure this is in place is indicative of a company operating successful material handling solutions.
Although it is preferable that your designated employee has experience with control panels (programming PLC’s and VFD’s), at a minimum, they must hold a sense of responsibility towards the system’s operating capability. From managing PM schedules to establishing correcting maintenance plans to training operators and monitoring performance, these internal champions are critical to the long-term success of a project.
No matter how robust or high-quality a solution is, proper operation and maintenance will ultimately determine whether or not it will be running 15 years from now. While the manufacturer or integrator can provide tools to help the customer get started (in some cases employ full time support on-site), it is ultimately up to the customer to have a sense of pride and responsibility for their new system.
If the customer is not set up for success, the entire system can grind to a halt, and they may experience costly delays and repairs. That may be a result of just one single employee not having an understanding of how to properly operate the system. This can even be something as simple as feeding a wrong-sized or incorrect type of package into the system.
If you have more questions after reading through this, feel free to reach out to ISS Material Handling for more information on how to ensure long term success with your material handling solution. Taking on an automation solution can be intimidating, but if you have the right team in place, you’ll see how efficient your operations can be!
