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Robots are making their way into more workplaces. They have long been used in factories and laboratories, but are now starting to also be introduced to hospitals, farms, construction sites and even restaurants.
There are understandable concerns when it comes to investing in robots such as the cost, level of maintenance and impact on human staff. However, for many businesses the benefits are beginning to outweigh any drawbacks. This post explains more as to why it could be time to introduce robots to your business.
Robots can boost productivity
Programming tasks to be completed by robots can often result in a greater level of accuracy and precision. Such tasks can also be carried out faster than any human could carry them out. A prime example is engraving – detailed engraving tasks that would have once taken hours can now be carried out by a laser engraving robot in minutes.
Robots can also work longer hours than humans without needing rest. Automating various manufacturing tasks can allow them to be carried out continuously for long stints without having to hire teams of staff around the clock (although it could be useful to still have someone on shift to monitor machinery just in case something goes wrong).
Using robots can be safer
There are many instances where it is safer to use a robot than humans. Obvious examples include bomb disposal and space exploration – however, there are some more commonplace dangers that robots can also deal with such as working with chemicals in a lab or manufacturing plant.
Robots do need to be monitored to make sure that they don’t make dangerous mistakes. However, in most cases, there is little risk of such mistakes – especially as robotic safety features continue to be developed and fine-tuned.
Robots can be a fun novelty
There are some industries where robots may serve as a novelty that helps attract customers. An example includes restaurants that use robot waiters (as compared here at this Skyline Social guide) or delivery robots. Such robots could become a USP if there are currently no other restaurants using robots in your area.
Of course, as robots become more popular, this novelty may wear off. But there will always be new cutting edge robotics to look into.
The cost of robots is going down
Robots may not be cheap to buy, but they’re a lot less expensive than many companies assume. Robot developers typically offer a variety of flexible payment schemes including the option to buy outright, the option to buy and pay in instalments, the option to rent monthly or even the option to hire daily.
Maintaining these robots is becoming easier and cheaper too. There are now many sites that sell specialist robot parts like FANUC robot parts. Many robot manufacturers meanwhile provide warranties or free maintenance included with rental costs.
Robots can work with humans
Robots don’t have to replace human jobs. There are many trades where instead they can simply be used in conjunction with human workers, often making the lives of human workers easier.
It’s important to remember that while robots can take over tasks, they still need to be programmed by a human. They also need to be cleaned and maintained. Essentially, they are still a tool to be used by human workers – not a substitute.
