Investment in automation is vital for establishing and maintaining global competitiveness. If you look at automation as a series of stand-alone projects, as opposed to approaching automation from an integrated strategic level on a plant- and enterprise-wide basis, it may result in inconsistent RoI, not matching with the desired level. A better approach to automation investment begins with a strategic vision that drives a methodical approach to business improvement. The following section carries opinions and observations from industry experts, analyses the appropriate approach towards automation as a strategy and devises a framework so as to implement the right technology in the right way and at the right time and place.
“Methods of automation have changed” — Saurabh Prakash, Plant Head, Meenakshi Polymers
“Automation does not take away jobs” — Arundhati, Managing Director, Plazma Technologies
“Automation investment calls for scalable technology” — Atul Dave, Managing Director, SICK India
“SME's are more interested in automation” — Chetan TA, Managing Director – India, Murrelektronik