There are some misconceptions regarding the use of warehouse automation solutions. When companies believe wholeheartedly in these myths, they may find that they are missing out on some nice benefits.
Automation has the potential to provide a range of benefits. It can help make the warehouse more efficient while also reducing the risk of human error. These automated solutions can also help companies save money and time, creating happier, more satisfied customers. Yet some companies are still reluctant to make this investment.
Below are some of the most common misconceptions holding companies back in this arena.
The Myths of Warehouse Automation Solutions
Why aren’t more companies on board with these types of solutions if they provide so many benefits? Often, it’s because they just don’t know enough about them to make an educated decision one way or the other. By learning more about the benefits of automation, decision-makers can better determine whether this solution is right for their operation.
Myth 1: Warehouse Automation Solutions Are Too Expensive
Undoubtedly, this is one of the biggest myths around warehouse automation. It used to be true. In the past, it was mainly companies with large budgets that were able to install and use various types of automation solutions for their warehouses. The various types of technology, from sorting to labeling, were simply out of the price range of small to mid-size companies.
This is no longer a factor. The technology, including the software and machinery, is far more affordable today. Automated solutions are quite cost-effective, as they can start to pay for themselves the more that they are used. It’s possible for just about any business today to find good warehouse automation solutions that will fit into the budget.
Myth 2: Warehouse Automation Solutions Are Too Complicated
Another one of the myths that could be a holdover from the past is that the solutions are simply too complicated to be worthwhile. Businesses worry that integrating the software and machines into the system will take too long, which would mean they would have to shut down warehouse operations for days.
Fortunately, that’s not the case. Each business is different, so the solutions and integration will be different. While today’s automated solutions are much more robust than in the past, they’re also more sophisticated. Most systems integrate easily into legacy systems, causing little downtime or lost production.
Myth 3: Small Companies Don’t Need Warehouse Automation Solutions
Small companies with small production runs also benefit from automated warehouse solutions. Regardless of a company’s size, it can still enjoy the benefits that warehouse automation solutions provide. It speeds things up, ensures accuracy, and can help to make the customers happier. All of this leads to a better return on investment.
Myth 4: Warehouse Automation Solutions Don’t Have Enough Flexibility
Another reason some companies are hesitant to use warehouse automation is that they worry that the solutions available will not work with their type of business. They don’t believe that the systems and options are flexible enough to work in their type of industry.
While some of the older options may have been limited in their capacity, that’s not the case any longer. Today, it’s possible to find providers that can customize solutions that work with just about any sort of business or need in the warehouse and beyond. Of course, business owners will need to be sure they find a company that can provide a customized solution that fits their needs.
Myth 5: Companies Will Need a New Solution in a Few Years
How often will the system need to be replaced? Those who opt for a quality system that can scale and grow will find that they don’t need to replace their warehouse automated solutions. Instead, it will grow with the company as its needs grow. When the right solution is chosen, it will be sustainable and last for the life of the business.
Of course, this may not be true with all of the solutions offered by certain providers. Decision-makers should be sure to carefully vet each provider to ensure their solutions are scalable and sustainable.
Myth 6: Implementing Warehouse Automation Solutions Means Getting Rid of Employees
Automating the warehouse makes things more efficient, and this may mean that in some cases, employees are no longer needed to handle certain tasks. For example, those that choose to use a print and apply solution will not need to have employees putting on labels. In some cases, of course, it may mean that certain roles will no longer need to be filled.
However, it doesn’t necessarily mean that those employees have to be let go. Instead, they can spend more time focusing on other aspects of their job. They might also be transferred to a different location in the company.
Myth 7: Training on Warehouse Automation Solutions Takes Too Long
How long does it take to get everyone up to speed using the solutions? The answer to this question will vary, of course, but most of the time, they are easy to understand. Those who need to have access to the systems will find that they tend to be easy to use. The overall training should not take long. There may be an initial learning curve, but it’s generally short.
Put the Right Solutions in Place
Now that the myths have been debunked, it should be easier for people to see the truth about the benefits that using warehouse automation can provide. Those who are interested in these types of services will need to check to see what types of options are available to them and consider what their warehouse needs to thrive. Find the provider that can offer what’s needed in terms of solutions and overall quality. Great warehouse automation solutions can make a huge difference in the overall efficiency and success of a business.
