Automation addresses challenges such as workforce shortages, capacity limits, rising costs, and quality concerns. However, many companies face difficulties with implementation. Success requires careful planning, including defining your scope, building the right team, managing risks, and ensuring lasting success.
- Define the Scope: Focus on automating what makes the most sense. Avoid attempting to automate everything at once or treating automation as an all-or-nothing proposition. Use a framework of must-haves, should-haves, and nice-to-haves to prioritize your needs. A phased approach can help you establish realistic goals for both the present and future.
- Build the Right Team: Your team is crucial to success. Assess whether you have the necessary expertise to plan, implement, and maintain automation. If not, consider external partners, particularly when technical resources are limited.
- Mitigate Risks: Unexpected challenges do not have to lead to failure. Tools such as Failure Mode and Effects Analysis (FMEA) can help identify potential issues early. Test performance characteristics, run proofs of concept, and conduct repeated testing to ensure the technology performs as expected.
- Plan for the Long Term: Automation does not end with implementation. Develop a long-term plan that includes spare parts, maintenance schedules, and troubleshooting resources. Remote monitoring can also help address skill gaps. Do not overlook change management. Automation often alters roles and workflows. Support your team through clear communication, training, and feedback opportunities. Helping employees adapt is essential for success.
How CIRAS Can Help
Automation does not have to feel overwhelming. CIRAS is here to guide you through every step—defining needs, identifying resources, managing risks, and ensuring long-term success. We are committed to helping you achieve your automation objectives. Contact us to begin the process.
For more information, contact Andrew Friend at afriend@iastate.edu or 515-520-2803.