Adapting to Automation
Mention the word “robotics” and a picture emerges of a metal-faced automaton with roving antennae and superhuman abilities. The possible dilemma of futuristic robots who take over mankind has been well-dramatized in popular science fiction movies.
Yet here we are today, in the 21st Century, and robots have been found to be a useful part of everyday life. They may not have the metal faces that we thought would be staring back at us, but they have slowly infiltrated every industry, performing duties admittedly better than humans can do them, with tireless efficiency. Machine parts are manufactured to exact specification by electronic arms, computerized minds are performing extensive mathematical equations in much less time than their human counterparts, and complicated surgeries are being performed virtually with the eyes and arms of machines. Robotics are here to stay.
This does nothing to aid the comfort level of the average human being, who is being foisted into the midst of the electronic age at breakneck speed. Old habits are hard to break; thus a discussion has come to the forefront about the way robotics are replacing traditional human jobs, and what that will mean for modern day society. Adi Gaskell looks at some of the facets of this dilemma in the Forbes article, “Why You Should Get Busy Adapting”.
The Ramifications for Business
Whether the average American is willing to adapt to these changes, businesses must come into the present reality that the use of automation can often do the job better and faster. The truth of the matter is that many entry level positions or professions based on manual processes can be handled by robotics, artificial intelligence or some form of automation.
One of the best examples is in the accounts payable department of the average business. The routine duties of accounts payable are now being handled with great efficiency by electronic invoicing. Accounts payable automation has transformed a manual job into an efficient process that can impact the average company at its highest levels, with dynamic discounting and electronic invoicing. This change in Accounts Payable is changing the way business leaders think about automation, as they realize that e-invoicing can get them where they want to go, faster and easier.
For business, robotics and automation should really be a simple decision for many parts of the business. And as has always been true, creative Americans will find inventive ways to adapt.