TECHNOLOGY
and Siemens has automated some production lines to the point that human supervision isn ’ t necessary for weeks at a time . PwC estimates around 45 percent of current work processes can in fact be automated . However , the future lies in more advanced , sophisticated robotics . The possibilities are endless .
Unlike fixed , automated machinery such as conveyor belts , robots are now programmed with AI software that allows them to complete the repetitive , manual tasks of the production line . Cost and affordability has been a huge driver in the employment of more advanced robotics in the supply chain . At US retailer Target Corp , traditional forklift trucks have been replaced with pick and pack robots programmed with AI computing power ; working for longer , at a quicker rate and at a lowercost than humans / outsourced labour .
However , it ’ s cutting-edge Robotics Process Automation ( RPA ) that ’ s on course to take centre stage . RPA advances beyond automation and eradicates the need for the traditional programming once necessary for robots to perform tasks in the supply chain , improving the efficiency and flexibility of transactional processes .
“ We live in a world where , as consumers , we demand things now and robotics can help retailers meet this growing desire ’
Guy Chiswick , Managing Director , Webloyalty Northern Europe
20 May 2017