Large companies, fewer employees, and million dollar investments. These are often the first things that come to mind when companies consider automating their internal transport processes. But how much of it is actually true?
Although mobile robots have become an integral part of many modern production and logistics environments, several persistent myths still exist.
This is understandable. New technologies are often surrounded by assumptions that do not necessarily keep pace with technological developments.
We’ve gathered three of the myths we encounter most often and put them under the microscope.
Myth 1: It requires major modifications
One of the most common assumptions is that automation requires extensive facility modifications, new flooring, rails, reflectors, and long production shutdowns.
That may have been the reality for many traditional transport systems in the past, but the technology has evolved significantly.
Modern solutions such as AGILOX AMRs and WEWO AGVs are designed to operate in existing environments. Using intelligent navigation, sensors, and cameras, the robots can orient themselves and adapt to their surroundings.
This does not mean that implementation requires no preparation. Workflows and traffic patterns still need to be considered. However, in many cases, the focus is on process optimisation rather than extensive facility modifications.
Myth 2: It replaces employees
This is perhaps the concern we hear most often.
In reality, the goal is rarely to replace people. The objective is to allow technology to take over tasks that do not necessarily require human expertise.
Every day, many companies spend considerable resources on internal transport tasks that take valuable time away from employees.
This is where AMR and AGV technology can create value by automating repetitive transport processes.
It frees up time for quality control, problem solving, optimisation, and other tasks where employees’ skills and expertise create the greatest value.
As a result, the technology often becomes a helping colleague rather than a replacement.
Myth 3: It’s only for large companies
A few years ago, automation was often associated with large investments and complex projects.
Today, the possibilities are far more flexible.
Many companies start with a single solution that addresses a specific challenge. This could be transport between the warehouse and production, handling finished goods, or something entirely different.
The solution can then be scaled as the company’s needs evolve.
This makes automation relevant for small, medium sized, and large companies alike.
Today, it’s no longer about the size of the company, but about identifying where there is potential to optimise processes.
Where do these myths come from?
Many of these myths originate from previous generations of automation solutions.
The technology has evolved, but many companies’ perceptions have not necessarily evolved with it.
Most companies do not begin with the goal of automating everything.
Instead, they start with one simple question:
“Where are we losing time every single day?”
More often than not, that is where the greatest opportunities are found.
