The Wave of the Future

Does automation really equal greater business success?

Here’s our take…

Generally speaking, we are in agreement that, yes, automation is the wave of the future. In order for businesses to keep up, become more efficient, and remain competitive, they should ride that wave.

So, what does automation mean?

au·​to·​ma·​tion |  \ ˌȯ-tə-ˈmā-shən   \ noun

Definition of automation

1. the technique of making an apparatus, a process, or a system operate automatically
2. the state of being operated automatically
3. automatically controlled operation of an apparatus, process, or system by mechanical or electronic devices that take the place of human labor

The reality is that there are only so many hours in a day, and even fewer of those that a human being is willing to work on boring, repetitive tasks. So, it makes sense for businesses to consider how they can utilize as many hours of the day as possible, and make them productive for their business and their bottom line.

If long-standing businesses are hesitant to consider automation, it’s understandable. In the past, automation was an expensive and time-consuming undertaking, requiring a team of experts to implement it. But today, implementing automation into your businesses is much easier. With a myriad of resources at your fingertips, including cloud-based platforms, automation is accessible to just about anyone. Oh, and the advantages are many, including freeing valuable employees up to do more fulfilling work, and less repetitive tasks. It’s a win-win situation because your employees feel more valued by getting to do more meaningful work, and as a business owner you are making smart decisions for your bottom line.

We also need to be clear that automation doesn’t necessarily mean replacing people. Rather, it’s a solution to a lack of skilled labor. Automation can also work alongside an existing workforce to bolster efficiency. Only time will tell what the workforce of the future will look like.

While automation is not a product of the COVID-19 pandemic, let’s just say it gave it a big, giant push. For the packaging industry specifically, automation is having a do or die moment. But we are not alone, many industries around the world are looking to see how to stay productive and profitable in the year of running a business post-Covid.

So, why is automation good for business?

1. The COVID-19 pandemic which has changed the mindsets of consumers, causing a major shift to online shopping.
2. If they aren’t already, businesses need to be set up to meet this new consumer buying trend.
3. There’s a labor shortage, and it shows no signs of changing anytime soon.
4. By automating redundant tasks, businesses can save time and money and concentrate on other business growth areas.

In fact, according to the McKinsey Tech Trends Index, automation is the top trend in technology.

This combination of lower costs, increased efficiency, and the potential to only grow your business model- of any size – further is why so many businesses are turning to automation today.

Let’s face it, all you have to do is open your smartphone or turn on your tv to see the latest news on how automation is being used globally, and locally. Most of us only have to open our front door to accept their latest Prime delivery to experience the impact of automation firsthand.

BestPack has been mastering the art of automation (and reaping its benefits for some time now). Let us be your partner in your automation journey. If you are in the packaging industry and are looking to automate, give our sales team a call today and learn more about what we offer.

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