A revolutionary transformation is taking place within the complex landscape of supply chain management and modern logistics. It’s one that attempts to combine technological innovation with human intellect and experience. There’s a common misconception that automation will replace humans. In fact, it should complement and support human workers, not replace them. Here’s where man and machine come together to get the most out of warehouse automation.
The Rise of Automation Solutions in Warehouses
Warehouse automation has come a long way over the past decade. From automated conveyor systems to autonomous forklifts to robotic pickers, these technology solutions are revolutionizing the logistics industry.
By sticking to the traditional ways of doing things, the burden on warehouse workers has become much too great. In a new era of next-day delivery and other lofty promises, consumer expectations have translated to an unrealistic demand on human workers.
Achieving the pace required to meet new productivity and efficiency metrics isn’t just about hiring more labor or working faster; it involves a complex strategy of adapting to fast-changing market demands. This calls for innovative solutions—namely automation designed for warehouses.
The benefits of implementing automation are significant. Warehouses that adopt these technologies enjoy greater efficiency, faster order fulfillment, fewer errors, more visibility, scalability, and the potential for 24/7 operations. While these solutions have been game-changers for warehouses and the businesses that use them, that doesn’t necessarily mean it’s time to fire all the employees.
Why We Still Need Warehouse Labor
Even though many warehouses and distribution centers are implementing warehouse solutions, human intervention is still necessary. What is changing, however, is the roles people fulfill alongside technology. A few of the reasons we still need human labor in warehouses include:
Cost-effectiveness — Many warehouses adopt automation solutions to save costs, and they can certainly do this. However, the initial cost of these solutions involves a significant upfront investment. Even though some large retailers have nearly fully automated warehouses, this isn’t financially feasible for small- and mid-sized facilities that still rely on a labor force to handle much of the work. - Adaptability/flexibility — Automation solutions are most suitable for repetitive tasks with few changing variables. It can be challenging for a robot to build a pallet with different sizes and shapes of products. Human workers can do this with ease and quickly change tasks on the fly to unload trucks, build pallets, pick products, or process returns.
- Better dexterity — Robotics have advanced a lot in the past few years, but many of these solutions don’t have a light touch. In other words, they may not be the best choice to handle fragile products or items that could easily slip out of their grasp.
- Problem-solving/critical thinking — In the event of power outages, equipment failure, or other emergencies, your human workers can think on their feet and come up with creative solutions to problems. Robotics may still not be advanced enough to handle such tasks.
How Man and Machine Work Together in the Warehouse
There’s been a recent rush among many businesses, including those in the logistics field, to implement artificial intelligence (AI) and advanced technology solutions. There’s certainly nothing wrong with modernizing your business. However, experts argue that businesses must also consider the human element when making these changes.
In a new book released by Nada Sanders, a Northeastern distinguished supply chain management professor, and John Wood, an educator and attorney, the concept of the Humachine is thoroughly explored. Specifically, the authors interview chief AI experts and executives to determine how best to leverage technology alongside human creativity and other strengths.
Automation has emerged as a necessary ally to support warehouse workers. Specifically, automation can complement and enhance human capabilities. Here are some examples of how man and machine are working together in the warehouse:
- Automated Guided Vehicles (AGVs) — AGVs can transport heavy goods from one place to another in the warehouse, increasing the speed of movement and reducing potential sprain and strain injuries.
Mobile Powered Carts — These mobile workstations are a game-changer for warehouses and distribution centers. Instead of requiring workers to walk back and forth to a central location for instructions or to report data, this technology brings the work onto the warehouse floor. These solutions also support other wireless automation solutions. - Voice Picking — Instead of holding clipboards or slips or paper, warehouse workers can pick orders hands-free using voice picking automation. This solution gives workers voice instructions for picking, which they can confirm via voice before moving on to the next item.
- Collaborative Robots (Cobots) — True to their name, cobots are designed to help human workers eliminate or reduce redundant, difficult, or inefficient tasks. For example, cobots can be used for order picking, loading pallets, and quality control inspections.
- Automated Storage and Retrieval Systems (AS/RS) — An AS/RS system can automatically store and retrieve goods in the warehouse with speed and accuracy at the direction of human workers. These systems can do their job while human workers focus on other critical tasks.
Truly intelligent warehouse automation technology should support the human workforce, not replace it. With two-day, next-day, and even same-day delivery becoming the norm, workers are the ones who take on the brunt of this expedited timeline, making efficient fulfillment practices more important than ever.
That’s where automation and technology integration can support fast fulfillment, combining the proficiency of automation with the carefully attuned decision-making instincts of real people. Newcastle’s powered mobile workstations are designed for efficiency and ergonomics and to complement the work of fulfillment teams.
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Industry Report: Hybrid Automation |
