When someone hears the word automation, they often picture large, enterprise-level companies and significant investments in long-lead projects needing teams of support engineers. While that can be the case and those projects certainly make the most headlines, people often don’t realize how powerful automation for small to mid-sized businesses (SMBs) can be. The right automation solution for a small to mid-size business can be extremely beneficial. Many warehouse automation solutions have become more accessible for SMBs, and are even more so are necessary for those businesses to stay competitive. We’ll go over this misconception and show how automation isn’t just for the big businesses, it’s for SMBs too.
Automation solutions are on the rise as they become more affordable and accessible for all types of facilities. Today, SMBs can now leverage these solutions to streamline processes, reduce injuries and accidents, and stay competitive in the industry. What used to be only for large enterprises is now a practical strategy for SMBs looking to strengthen and scale their operations for future growth.
With many SMBs, daily operations are managed by a very small team. Limited quantity of personnel may prove to be a limitation when looking to keep up with demand, expand in the future, or take on additional workloads. Implementing an automation solution acts as a force multiplier, handling repetitive tasks that can take workers a lot of valuable time. By automating these manual, repetitive tasks, employees can be freed up to then shift their focus to high-value responsibilities that use human creativity and problem-solving skills. This shift can better foster productivity and enable smaller teams to accomplish more with what they have.
Even the simplest of material handling automation solutions can have an immediate impact on the safety of a facility and operation. A single accident can cripple an SMB financially and deteriorate morale and reputation, so justifying investment in automation solutions with ergonomic and other safety benefits is made easy for all stakeholders.
With material handling solutions integrated into a facility, there is higher consistency with repetitive tasks. With established, automated workflows, companies experience fewer errors and can eliminate bottlenecks or stoppages that often slow down production. These solutions provide reliable processes and reduce costs from mistakes. In turn, the overall customer experience improves significantly. With more consistent workflow, teams can provide faster and more reliable service via consistent pricing and supply to your customers. When there are fewer disruptions, customers receive the support they expect, boosting satisfaction and long-term loyalty.
Getting started with an automation solution can be intimidating, especially for SMBs exploring it for the first time. The best place to start is analysis and surveying of existing processes and employees, identifying your operational bottlenecks and safety hazards, finding what tasks slow you down every day and create inefficiencies. Once you pinpoint those challenges, the most important step takes place: a thoughtful consideration of where and how an automation solution would provide the best value. By focusing at first on specific pain points or KPI’s, you can create a roadmap for automation that makes sense and supports long-term growth.
Lastly, automation is not about replacing people, it’s about empowering SMBs to do more with the team they currently have. A smaller group of personnel shouldn’t hold you back from your future goals. The right automation solution can fill the gaps or weaknesses in your current operation, providing your team with the support they need to perform their best. With warehouse automation, small to medium sized businesses can grow confidently and operate competitively without overextending their workforce.
Get Started with an Automation Solution!
Want to chat about how a material handling automation solution could integrate into your facility? Give your St. Louis automation experts a ring at 833-754-2164 or fill out an inquiry form here, and we’ll get back to you!
About the Author
John Fontaine
Automation Sales Lead
After a 9 year career as an officer in the US Navy Submarine Force, John developed vital experience in the advanced manufacturing and unmanned systems with business development roles at two major defense contractors. In directing the growth of ISS Material Shelving, a division of Industrial Shelving Systems, John’s mission is clear: to remain thoroughly customer-focused, ensuring that businesses who partner with ISS Material Handling seize the right opportunities for automation adoption, fueling responsible growth amidst challenging economic circumstances. When not in the office, John enjoys all things music, cooking, and fitness.