Over the past decade, the supply chain has gained significant visibility. The rise of e-commerce, coupled with the challenges posed by the pandemic, has brought supply chain and warehouse technology into the spotlight.
This increased visibility has helped individuals and businesses gain a deeper understanding of the crucial role played by warehouses and the supply chain in ensuring that products reach the shelves. In today’s world, people better understand the scale and scope of the industry and the need for a dedicated workforce to ensure timely delivery of goods.
Robotics in the warehouse
Amazon is well known for its early adoption of robotics into their warehousing and distribution centres and subsequently the growth of the business that this technology no doubt played a role in.
More recently apparel industry leader, S&S Activewear, announced the expansion of its partnership with Körber Supply Chain Software and the deployment of Geekplus robotics solutions to increase warehouse efficiencies.
Intelligent robotics is a true game-changer in the supply chain industry if applied correctly. Since 2016, the global stock of industrial robots has grown by an average of 14% each year. However, it is important to note that while the figures reflect growth and strong demand, intelligent robotics need to act as holistically integrated solutions to maximise efficiency.
With robotics becoming an increasing trend in the supply chain, how will it affect the workforce?
Impact on the supply chain workforce
At the core of the supply chain industry are the dedicated individuals driving its operations. In recent years, however, we have seen the adoption of technologies, such as robotics and voice, enabling individuals to work more efficiently in the warehouse. Voice-directed solutions help workers operate hands-free and eye-free in busy warehouse environments. Automation and robotics are being used to support and enhance the human workforce, rather than replacing it.
There is now a growing need for technology operating systems to integrate these various technologies. Tools like these are augmenting human capabilities, resulting in operational efficiency gains.
Autonomous Mobile Robots (AMRs) are designed not only to boost productivity but also to enhance workplace satisfaction. By handling repetitive and labour-intensive tasks, AMRs free up human workers to focus on more strategic and fulfilling activities.
The seamless integration of these technologies is becoming increasingly essential. Modern warehouses depend on complex systems that must operate harmoniously. Software orchestration is vital in ensuring that both new and legacy technologies work together efficiently, maintaining smooth and effective warehouse operations.
Effects on human employees
The supply chain industry is facing unprecedented workforce shortages, leaving technology to fill in the gaps. Robotics is one of the cutting-edge technologies transforming the workforce by augmenting, supporting and enabling workers to be more effective.
Businesses that prioritise their workforce and use technology as a tool to enhance employee performance will see significant benefits.
Companies focusing on improving efficiencies, workforce safety and employee well-being are experiencing the most considerable improvements. Robotics positively impacts human employees by saving time, increasing accuracy and allowing them to focus on more strategic tasks.
Not long ago, warehouse tasks were manual and mundane, leading to unfulfilling work. Today, robotics and technology have shifted this dynamic, allowing workers to focus on more important tasks and be more agile, dynamic and effective. Robotics also reduces repetitive strain injuries and fatigue-related accidents, making work more comfortable and less burdensome while aiding workflow productivity and scalability. In addition, working with robotics and other modern technologies is allowing workers to gain new skills that are more relevant to the market today and enabling businesses to evolve with the technology landscape.
The bottom line
Technology is not replacing jobs; it is creating new opportunities. Innovations have introduced roles such as robotics and automation specialists that didn’t exist 20 years ago. Robotics in the supply chain represents progress and is essential for allowing the workforce to keep pace with market demands.
A decade ago, experts predicted the supply chain industry would need three times more warehouses and a 300% increase in warehouse workers over the next few years. Thanks to advancements in technology, we have successfully met these demands, while competing with a contracting labour market
This technological evolution underscores the importance of continued investment in robotics and automation to maintain a resilient and efficient supply chain, capable of adapting to future challenges and consumer demands.
- Collaboration & Optimization
- Digital Supply Chain
