Studies reveal that more than 40% of workers across various industries spend at least a quarter of their workweek on manual, repetitive tasks. In the manufacturing sector, such mundane activities usually include collecting data and manually entering data. Many people view these tasks as an inefficient use of an employee's time, given the remarkable automation software available in today's market.

Innovative automation programs are designed to collect, upload, or synchronize data into a system of record automatically. By doing so, they can help eliminate bottlenecks that slow down production, as well as the manufacturing processes that impact output. Automating various manufacturing processes can also significantly reduce the chances of human error that can lead to injury. In fact, nearly 60% of workers believe they could save six or more hours each week if the repetitive aspects of their jobs were automated.

Automation isn't just beneficial for personnel out in the field. Higher-ups are also seeking to streamline their responsibilities. A renowned technological research and consulting firm suggests that 69% of day-to-day managerial work will be entirely automated by 2024. Examples of managerial work that can be automated include approvals, sign-offs, status updates, and confirmation requests. Increased efficiency in these operations can free up time so that employees at all levels can contribute more meaningfully to a business's success.

Automation isn't the only way to minimize repetitive and manual tasks. Many manufacturing organizations are utilizing cutting-edge robotic technology. These programmed robots or robot-controlled machines use artificial intelligence (AI) to improve an outfit's assembly, material handling, and processing capabilities. When set to work in a predictable environment, robots can handle physically demanding or monotonous jobs that can negatively affect employees, either through injury or morale. The result is a significant increase in productivity and a reduction in labor costs.

Similarly, there are collaborative robots, or cobots, that are different from traditional industrial robot applications because they are designed for direct human-robot interaction. Cobots are relatively new, but the demand for them is projected to skyrocket, with the market growing from $590.5 million in 2020 to nearly $2 billion in 2026. Industry experts predict that by 2025, 34% of the industrial robots sold will be collaborative. Cobots are cost-effective, safe, and flexible, making them an ideal modernization tool for small and mid-sized manufacturers to reduce redundant tasks, improve productivity, and achieve peak performance objectives.

For more information on the impact of repetitive tasks in manufacturing and how to counter them with technology, please see the accompanying resource.