Busting The Myths of Factory Automation

There has been a great increase in the number of manufacturers realising benefits such as improved productivity and reduced costs through automation over recent years. This trend looks set to continue, with the value of the global automation market projected to grow from $288.77 billion in 2024 to $497.22 billion by 2029. There’s likely to be wider adoption as automation costs continue to fall and technologies become more accessible. However, this will depend, to an extent, on the busting of automation myths as highlighted here.

Myth 1: You Need a Massive Warehouse for Automation

It’s simply not true that you need a massive amount of factory space for the integration of automation. Indeed, there’s a growing range of modular and easily scalable systems that can be tailored to meet the needs of variously sized businesses. Such technologies can be gradually integrated, with manufacturers realising the benefits over time. Already-installed machines can also be linked with cloud-based systems for improved productivity and reduced downtime.

Myth 2: Automation Installation is Disruptive and Time-Consuming

The installation of automated technologies doesn’t need to be a massive drain on time and resources. As mentioned, there’s a growing range of modular systems designed for quick set-up. These systems are increasingly connected with user-friendly platforms, with little to no need for programming. They can be easily implemented, with a positive return on investment in very little time.

Myth 3: Automation is Complicated to Use

Manufacturers have traditionally been reluctant to invest in automation due to concerns over the complexity of installation and everyday use. However, technology vendors are increasingly offering user-friendly systems, with comprehensive after-sales support.

As an example, Ishida is committed to partnering with their customers, providing a full range of after-sales services, including flexible service contracts tailored to different business needs and budgets. Expert training is also offered, ensuring that team members quickly get up to speed on the optimum use of new technologies.

Myth 4: Automation is Only for Large Businesses

There’s a common misconception that only the biggest businesses have the capacity for automation. In fact, technological developments have made automation an increasingly viable and cost-effective option for small and medium-sized companies. This has been highlighted in the widening adoption of AI, with 45% of SMEs having integrated at least one AI-based solution in 2024 (up from 25% in 2022).

SMEs are also benefiting from the scalability of physical factory systems, with a growing range of vendors offering modular solutions and pay-as-you-go models. This raises the prospect of competition with larger and more well-established companies. 

Myth 5: Automation Leads to Job Losses

There’s been an ongoing misconception that “robots take jobs”, as emphasised by Automate UK’s Manifesto for Automation. However, rather than replacing human workers, new technologies open up opportunities for more varied and rewarding roles. 

The automation of tasks in the dull, dirty, and dangerous categories is bound to make manufacturing careers more attractive, with people freed up to make best use of their creative and analytical capabilities. Indeed, a study by McKinsey and Company has projected a midpoint automation scenario resulting in the creation of 1.5 million net new jobs (rather than a workforce reduction) by 2030.

Automation will give rise to these manufacturing roles:

• Robotics Maintenance Technicians
• Automation Engineers
• AI and Machine Learning Specialists
• Systems Integrators
• Smart Factory IT Support Staff

Myth 6: Automation is Inflexible

Finally, there’s a mistaken belief that automated systems are inflexible and can’t be adapted to differing business requirements. In truth, such technologies are often designed with a focus on flexibility, with a range of settings for rapid adjustment to various situations. Such flexibility means that businesses are better able to adapt to market demands and maintain high levels of innovation.

As an example, the January/February 2025 edition of Machinery Update focused on Omron’s extension of its collaborative robot range with the TM25S (page 12). Combining greater payload capacity with extended reach, this compact and easy-to-integrate cobot enhances productivity. It can be used for a variety of palletising and mobile manipulation purposes, with the in-built vision system simplifying tasks such as package identification and parts inspection. The space-efficient design makes for easy workspace integration, ensuring flexible high-performance automation.

Embracing Automation for Growth

With such common myths being busted, we hope that this article has inspired you to more fully realise the benefits of automation. No matter your business size or manufacturing specialism, there’s the potential to boost efficiency and productivity through the integration of technology. Automation will also result in benefits such as enhanced accuracy and quality control, with better insights for decision-making.

As the leading trade association for automation suppliers and technology end users Automate UK is committed to supporting the realisation of such benefits. We will achieve this through the sharing of insights and access to the latest trends and technologies. Automate UK members can be assured of continuous support as push the UK’s manufacturing sector forwards through innovation. Together we’ll be more powerful than ever.