Learn About Automation in Manufacturing

Unable to find enough people to hire, businesses across Iowa are turning to process automation so they can continue to grow and develop in the face of a perpetually tight workforce. But installing robots without an overall plan can quickly lead to chaos instead of enhanced productivity.

Automation projects frequently fail because companies 1) don’t understand the bigger picture of how all their various organizational processes fit together, and/or 2) don’t have a clear idea about what they want the project to achieve.

Experts with the CIRAS Technology Assistance Program (TAP), can help Iowa manufacturers understand what’s possible with automation and how they can get the most value out of the most appropriate tool. Getting started with automation is a much easier process if a business knows what questions to ask and what should be considered when defining a project.

CIRAS can help:

• Understand a global process and where automation or robotics might make sense
• Weigh the cost versus potential benefits
• Define success and how to measure it
• Lay out a plant to accommodate automation
• Identify system integrators and understand questions to be asked

CIRAS can help manufacturers take the first steps towards implementing automation in their plant.

To seek guidance about process automation or to schedule a no-cost assessment, contact your Regional CIRAS Strategic Advisor or Project Manager Andrew Friend.

CIRAS provides several related services, including:

• Lean
• Safety
• Operations Management