FEATURE Automated Warehousing
Warehouse optimisation – a timely approach to automation
Steve Richmond, Director of Logistics Systems at Jungheinrich, explains that the key to successful automation is typically a staggered approach, instead of completely overhauling a current setup
A
s consumer demand and expectations increase, and supply chains become more complex, businesses are
increasingly turning to automation to increase their efficiencies. Recent research by Jungheinrich found that almost two thirds (64%) of participants believe that warehouses will be ‘smart connected’ within five years, with people still playing some part in these processes. This is especially important during times of economic instability, as automation can provide a solid foundation to businesses during times of uncertainty. However, to embrace the connected
warehouse to its full potential, businesses need to understand that technology is just one part of the overall answer.
Collaborative approach
For many companies, collaboration is a key component in automation projects. However, this approach is less about just plugging diff erent systems together, but more about combining people, processes and technologies together to achieve common goals. To enable a truly seamless and eff ective collaborative intralogistics model, companies must create a highly motivated and skilled workforce, willing to embrace new opportunities. To achieve the best results and value from automation, companies must be clear and concise about their specifi c business objectives, as well as considering their customer expectations
16 February 2021 | Automation
and emerging technology solutions. Moreover, automation cannot only support businesses in unlocking value from the supply chain, but, in turbulent economic times such as Brexit or the current Coronavirus crisis, can also enable a safety-net strategy, supporting organisations with overall business aims, despite experiencing challenges such as staff shortages.
Gradual automation implementation Too often businesses think they need to jump in at the deep end and deploy full automation technology straight away. But full automation isn’t necessarily an appropriate strategy; there is no need to revolutionise the entire facility to achieve significant efficiency and productivity improvements.
The right advice is key – jumping in too deep too soon could mean that stakeholders are not fully bought into the solution from the start. Instead, working in tandem with the right partner that can inspire collaborative working with the workforce and key stakeholders – deploying the right technology and processes for the right departments at the right time – can integrate automation seamlessly into the business and allow for rewards to be rapidly realised. By taking a hybrid approach to implementing automation, transitioning in stages will allow the workforce to gradually understand and become familiar with each stage of the automated process and harness the benefits.
Future-proofing supply chains Supply chains that are already under immense pressure caused by an incredibly turbulent conditions will begin to show increased strain unless they rely on innovative technologies. Businesses should, therefore, ensure they have the processes and procedures in place to spot early signs of disruption and act upon them. We are already noticing an uptake in the use of innovative technology in the warehouse such as Automated Guided Vehicles (AGVs), AI and IoT. This type of automation plays a central role in how the industry faces current and future challenges.
Even for smaller businesses, not only can part-automation unlock valuable effi ciencies, but it can also act as a safety net to see the company through turbulent times. For example, if the government’s planned legislation to limit visas for low-skill workers goes through, the consequences for many businesses could be severe.
Better processes Businesses in all sectors are fi nding new, innovative and cost-eff ective ways to better their processes, and deploying a level of automation could go a long way. Creating a smart and connected warehouse is a transformation many are eager to undergo.
CONTACT:
Jungheinrich
www.jungheinrich.co.uk
automationmagazine.co.uk
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