What Is Automation’s Impact on the Workforce?

In the industrial and commercial sectors, automation has long been considered essential for the growth and success of businesses. Automation systems enable facilities to increase output, improve product quality, shorten lead times, reduce material waste, and raise productivity, all of which can result in greater profitability. However, despite the numerous advantages automation offers to businesses, many people wonder whether the technology is good for workers.

The short answer to that question is yes. While it is commonly believed that investing and utilizing robots will put people out of work, the truth is automation technology reframes existing jobs and creates new opportunities to build a safer and broader work environment. Below, we go more in-depth on the impact of automation on the workforce.

Safer Work Environment

Automation systems are often used for operations that would be difficult or dangerous for human workers. For example, many companies utilize robots to perform work involving harsh chemicals or dangerous machinery that could injure or otherwise have adverse effects on human health or wellbeing. As a result, they improve employee safety within the workplace, which was/is the objective of the United States Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970 (OSHA). The introduction of the act has been one of the leading causes of the rapid adoption of automation technologies in factories.

Shorter Workweeks

Factories that utilize automation technology can operate 24/7 without hiring additional employees or forcing existing employees to work extended hours. In the 1900s, the average workweek was about 70 hours. Today, it has been reduced to approximately 40 hours. Two of the main reasons for this reduction are mechanization and automation, both of which have helped shorten the time it takes to process a production order. The result is employees can enjoy a better work-life balance even as factory productivity increases.

Lower Training Requirements and Broader Range of Job Opportunities

Automation technology enables workers to have greater flexibility. Rather than being trained to perform one specific task, they can be trained to use equipment that can perform many tasks. These skills enable them to more easily transition between different production jobs within the facility. Additionally, as they are free from being pigeonholed into a single role, they can train for other aspects of the business, such as data analysis, troubleshooting, and production management.

Better Business Operations

In factory settings, automation generally refers to robotics. However, the term is much broader, encompassing any technology used to automate operations. For example, automation software can be used to facilitate customer service transactions and interactions, streamline hiring processes, or manage advertising campaigns. As automation technology advances, it is likely to find application in even more workplace operations.