Let’s face it: Automation has become a key factor in manufacturing and distribution.

In fact, the global warehouse automation systems market was valued at $21.7 billion in 2021 and is expected to reach $93 billion by 2031, according to a recent study.

To keep up with demand, adopting autonomous technology like automated storage and retrieval systems (AS/RS) has been an obvious next step for many companies, including Amazon, IKEA, and Tesla. Walmart has also been aggressive in transforming its supply chain by deploying automated storage and retrieval systems in several of its distribution centers, as well as investing in technology to support micro-fulfillment for e-commerce and rapid order fulfillment at the store level.

As the need for instant gratification proliferates, employing autonomous technology will become even more imperative for companies eager to keep their customers happy, stay ahead of the competition, and drive revenue. Below, we detail five ways to stay ahead of the automation revolution.

1. Continuously Learn and Evolve

Continuously learning about autonomous technology for warehouses requires a proactive approach and a combination of different learning methods. These can include online courses and webinars, industry conferences and seminars, publications and journals, white papers and research reports, and online forums. 

It’s also essential to consider and research the right time to incorporate autonomous technology into your operation. Some questions to ask yourself can include:

•    Are my customer orders delayed?
•    Is my workforce successfully fulfilling orders?
•    What are my biggest issues concerning order fulfillment?
•    Are my current processes repetitive and labor intensive?

Understanding your business’s greatest needs can help you identify which autonomous tools will be most helpful in solving them—and when to integrate them.

2. Prioritize Employee Training

Ensure your employees are trained on how to use autonomous technology through internal and external training sessions, courses, and workshops, such as Udemy or Udacity. Technology is constantly changing, so ensure your team is participating in regular training sessions to keep your operation as safe and efficient as possible.

Once your employees are properly trained, your autonomous system will help improve overall safety at your operation. This will come as a result of autonomous technology reducing the number of employees on the floor and taking over repetitive, labor-intensive tasks.

3. Domestically Source Your Parts

The COVID-19 pandemic and world events such as the conflict in Ukraine have undoubtedly played a role in disrupting global supply chains. Sourcing your parts within the United States can help you avoid inevitable supply chain delays, thus helping you increase customer satisfaction and improve your profitability.

Domestically sourcing your autonomous technology components also provides the added benefit of contributing to national market growth. In fact, according to McKinsey, a revived manufacturing industry in the U.S. could add up to 1.5 million jobs. 

If you are considering reshoring parts of your supply chain, be sure to read this Hynes white paper (also referenced below) to reap the benefits of onshoring or reshoring your supply chain.

4. Adopt and Test Emerging Technologies

Did you know that 96% of industry leaders identify innovation as an essential factor to growth?

When it comes to autonomous technology, being open to adopting emerging tools will be critical for improving your efficiency and effectiveness. For example, consider using advanced analytics, machine learning, or cloud-based solutions to optimize your operations or expedite time-intensive processes. For example, if you’re using legacy warehouse management software that requires manual input, you may consider integrating it with cloud-based software that provides real-time data and can be accessed anywhere and at any time. That way, you’ll be able to immediately identify and resolve issues as they arise.

5. Identify Opportunities for Integration

Understanding how automated technology can be incorporated into your existing processes will help you optimize your entire supply chain and boost your efficiency. For example, an AS/RS could help you store and retrieve items from predefined storage locations, thus eliminating human error and increasing safety. An automated guided vehicle could then transport items between storage locations and picking stations, which will help improve delivery times. 

Understanding how these technologies work together can help you get the most out of your investment and benefit from a seamless and streamlined supply chain.

Reap Benefits by Reshoring or Onshoring Your AS/RS Parts

Consumers want their parts immediately, and you can’t provide for them when dealing with ongoing supply chain issues. Talk to our experienced team to find out how we can help you reshore or onshore your AS/RS and other autonomous vehicle parts and reap the benefits of:

•    Increased customer satisfaction
•    Cost savings and improved profitability
•    Government incentives

Learn more about why you should domestically source your autonomous vehicle components in our free white paper, “The Benefits of Reshoring and Onshoring for U.S. Manufacturers.” Download it below.