5 common misconceptions about automation in liquid finishing

Investing in automation is not an easy decision. The unfamiliarity with automation processes and concerns about costs can be discouraging. However, it is crucial to recognise that these doubts are very common and can be addressed with accurate information and insights.

Feel reluctant to invest a big sum of money in automation? Are you uncomfortable with suddenly automating your entire manual process? Or do you believe that automation is only for big companies? There exist many misunderstandings when it comes to automation. Read on to discover why these doubts are unnecessary and find out why automation is worth considering for your business. 

1) Automation is too expensive

While the investment in automation might appear substantial, you should realise it can lead to significant long-term savings. Efficiency gains and productivity boosts resulting from automation enable major reductions in operational costs over time. This is because automation can increase consistent quality, optimise your processes, increase your capacity and reduce waste, all at once! Moreover, the initial cost may be misleading. You have multiple different options. You can choose for more basic or more advanced automatic processes. And you can gradually upgrade them to spread costs over time.

Want to explore this myth further? Read the article ‘Is automation too expensive?’

2) Everything needs to be automated at once

Automation is no all-or-nothing affair. You can start with smaller, more affordable steps matching your immediate needs. Then you can gradually automate more parts of the process. For example, you can decide on automating the mixing of paint first. Or you can implement just a part of the application process. In other words, automated systems are scalable and starter-friendly.

Want to explore this myth further? Read the article ‘Is automation an all-or-nothing solution?’

“Automated systems are scalable and starter-friendly.”

3) Automation is only useful for larger companies

Investments in automation seem like a no-brainer for larger companies, as they have higher volumes and standardised processes. Likewise, smaller companies tend to think that automation is not for them. The reality, however, is that company size does not really matter. The usefulness of automation depends largely on your processes and the targets you want to reach rather than the size of your company. So whether you are big or small, automation can provide a competitive edge for your business as long as you implement it structurally with clear targets in mind.

Want to explore this myth further? Read the article ‘Is automation only useful for larger companies?’

4) Automation is too difficult

Stepping away from familiar manually operated processes and workflows can feel overwhelming. Especially when you believe that automated systems only make things more complex. However, the truth is that you can make your automated set-up as complex as you want. In general, automated systems are rigorously programmed to follow precise protocols with little human intervention. That alone can make it easier to operate. And with the right partners, implementing an automated system into your existing workflow can be a smooth and swift process as well. Not only can they ensure compatibility with your current infrastructure, they can also help train your workers on how to operate and maintain the new system.

Want to explore this myth further? Read the article ‘Is automation too difficult?’

“Implementing an automated system into your existing workflow can be a smooth and swift process.”

5) Replaces human workers

Likely the most concerning myth is the idea that automation replaces human workers. Automated technology definitely changes people’s work environments and job content. For instance, by installing an automated system you can move workers who are exposed to dangerous or unhealthy work conditions to a safer environment. Or you can replace manual and repetitive work with more valuable tasks like monitoring, quality control and process control. Because automated systems still need to be operated by people, they often need re-orientation. This means that training workers to operate or cooperate with automated systems is part of the process.

Want to explore this myth further? Read the article ‘Does automation replace human workers?’

Beyond the myths

This article aims to debunk common misconceptions on automation. The truth is that each company is different and has unique business needs. What works for one business probably will not work for the other. What is remarkable about automation is that you can implement it as narrow or as wide as you want – starting from modest investments in monitoring or calculations to advanced mixing systems and spray robots. So what is keeping you from exploring the world of automation?