Supply chain managers have a number of challenges facing them: Costs have increased as inflation continues to eat away margins. Higher interest rates, designed to curb inflation, have made borrowing more expensive. Finding available workers continues to be a challenge. Either the labor force is just not there or managers face increased turnover from employees leaving for greener pastures and higher wages, further exacerbating all of the above.
The answer for many of these various challenges is increased investments in robotics and automation. Technological innovations, especially in robotic motion control and the rise of machine learning, have greatly reduced the costs of automated systems. What was once only available to major players possessing large operations can now be integrated on a smaller scale in many small- to medium-sized warehouse and manufacturing facilities.
Other strategies, such as short-term leasing, robotics-as-a-service (RaaS), and pricing based on actual throughput or production, help to reduce capital costs while providing very favorable returns on investments. Today’s systems are more flexible and scalable than ever, meaning that if you have a need, there is more than likely a very good and affordable solution available for you.
To address these trends, we focus this issue of Supply Chain Xchange on robotics and automation. Our cover story, “Intelligent workflows: orchestrating the intersection of AI and humans,” comes from a team of researchers at Auburn University. It examines “intelligent workflows” and how technology can be used to orchestrate the automation, artificial intelligence (AI), human workers, and software systems being used across an entire process.
Another insightful article, “Are humanoid robots ready for the warehouse?” directly addresses shortages of labor and how the additional flexibility and dexterity offered by humanoid robots make them an appealing fit for warehouses. While the article “Mobility makes the difference” details how Scholastic Canada has benefited from the flexibility provided by the RaaS model. Plus, we look at drones in the warehouse, 10 ways to benefit from warehouse automation, and much more.
We hope you enjoy this month’s edition as much as our contributors and staff are proud to bring it to you.
