How to reinvent your business with automation after the coronavirus
The global lockdowns we are currently living through are unprecedented in modern times. It's difficult to imagine what kind of a world we're going to emerge into once the coronavirus crisis is over. Thousands of businesses across the UK have shut down operations and closed their doors for an unknown period as the government orders all but the most essential work and travel to cease. All kinds of businesses are having to adapt to survive, and this is likely to lead to some major changes in the way many businesses operate even after the lockdown is released.
Why is automation a solution to lockdown?
A big part of the reason we're having to go under lockdown in the first place is simply that the more people go out to work, the less possible it is to effectively social distance. There is another solution to this problem, however: automation. The more tasks are automated, the fewer human staff that are needed and the easier it is to ensure two metres distance between people at all times. While most businesses aren't well placed to overhaul their entire business structures in order to replace staff with robots, the compulsory closures required by COVID-19 measures are pushing businesses to change in ways they've never had to before, and those businesses who have already employed automation technology are profiting from it now.
What are the benefits of automation during the outbreak and after it?
Aside from the fact that a cobot - that is, a collaborative robot - isn't susceptible to the coronavirus, using robots to complete necessary tasks can also be massively beneficial to a business in a number of ways. Businesses are currently facing trying financial times, but these may be set to continue for some time yet depending on how well the economy bounces back once the virus is behind us. In the meantime, falling turnover means cutting costs, and automation is a great way to reduce staff costs, streamline your business, and increase profits.
What has the COVID-19 crisis shown us about the way we're working today?
If anything, the unexpected outbreak of COVID-19 across the world has shone a spotlight on how unprepared the nation's businesses have been for a crisis of this kind. Not only has the global nature of the crisis highlighted a heavy reliance on certain other countries, including China, to maintain our supply chain, but it's also demonstrated that many UK businesses, even those that consider themselves modern, have yet to employ truly flexible working practices.
How can I begin moving to automation?
UK business owners keen to explore automation but unsure where to start don't need to invest millions from the get-go. Robot hire is a convenient, affordable route for British businesses keen to slowly integrate automation technology into their existing operations.
A spokes person for www.bots.co.uk said "we have noticed a huge increase in uptake for robots to do mundane tasks like packing and logistics within the warehouse during this crisis especially in the food packaging sector" "Our robots have also even been updated to disinfect areas using UVC light to kill the virus in the workplace and hospitals"
The coronavirus crisis, tragic as it may be, is the ideal opportunity to invest in and improve existing systems to ensure that businesses come out of lockdown first foot forward, with the best possible working practices already in place to thrive in the new market.