How to Prepare for Automation: Start Simple and Keep Your Team Involved
by Shawn Furman
Director, Automation and Manufacturing Technology Strategy
Manufacturers Resource Center
Automation has the power to boost productivity, reduce waste, and free up your team to focus on higher-value work. But for many manufacturers, the idea of “automating” can feel overwhelming, especially if you’re unsure where to begin. The good news? You don’t have to automate everything at once. In fact, the best automation journeys begin with a clear focus, simple steps, and strong involvement from the people who know your processes best: your team.
Here’s how to get started:
- Start Small — Really Small
One of the biggest mistakes manufacturers make is thinking automation has to be a massive investment from day one. Instead, look for small, repetitive tasks that are time-consuming or error prone.
Think about:
- Manually recording production data
- Basic material handling
- Quality inspections for visual defects
- Labeling or part sorting
Starting with a low-risk, high-impact task lets you see results quickly, build confidence, and set the stage for bigger wins later.
- Listen to Your Operators
Your frontline workers know your processes better than anyone else. Involve them early and often. Ask:
- What tasks are the most repetitive?
- Where do delays or errors happen most?
- What would make their jobs easier?
Not only will you get better ideas, but your team will be more open to automation if they’ve had a say in shaping it.
- Treat Automation Like a Process, Not a Project
Automation isn’t something you buy once and forget about. It’s a process of continuous improvement. Build a culture that:
- Tests new ideas incrementally
- Learns from mistakes
- Measures performance before and after changes
This mindset allows you to adjust and grow your automation efforts without overwhelming your operation or budget.
- Choose the Right Partners
Whether it’s an automation integrator, equipment supplier, or local manufacturing resource center, find partners who understand your business and are willing to take a crawl-walk-run approach.
Avoid one-size-fits-all solutions. Look for vendors who will help train your team and support your growth over time.
- Communicate and Train
One of the biggest sources of fear around automation is job loss. Be clear: automation is meant to support your team, not replace it. Show how automation can:
- Reduce physical strain
- Eliminate mundane work
- Open up opportunities for higher-skill roles
Invest in training to help your team adapt to new tools and responsibilities — and grow with your business.
Final Thoughts
Automation doesn’t have to be complex or expensive to make an impact. Start with one or two targeted opportunities. Engage your team every step of the way. And remember: smart automation is a journey, not a destination. By keeping things simple and people-focused, you’ll build the kind of resilient, agile operation that can thrive in today’s competitive environment.
About the Author
Shawn Furman
Shawn, Director, Automation and Manufacturing Technology Strategy, mentors MRC manufacturers to lead and guide them in advanced technologies that enhance quality, boost productivity, encourage innovation, and reduce production time. Today that also includes digital transformation, automation and robotics, and IT integration that enables innovation and smart manufacturing, driving extraordinary outcomes for customers.
Manufacturers who want to learn more and to discuss Process Improvements, Advanced Manufacturing Technology resources and Implementations, please call Shawn at (610) 737-2529 or email him at shawn.furman@mrcpa.org