Articles

Articles

We love learning about the latest advancements in technology and business. Have a look at what we found to be interesting.

Autom8 Clarifies: Is Automation Really Expensive?​

There’s a prevailing myth that has garnered considerable traction among businesses, especially among those yet to embark on the automation journey: “Automation is a luxury, reserved for the deep-pocketed.” At Autom8, we’re keen on setting the record straight. Not only is automation accessible, but with our tailored solutions, it’s structured to be remarkably affordable, even offering monthly packages to ease the investment.

Autom8 Reflects: The Evolution of Technology and Our Path Forward​

From the first spark of fire to the intricate web of the internet, humanity’s journey with technology has been a testament to our innate desire to innovate, adapt, and progress. At Autom8, as custodians of the latest wave in tech evolution — automation — we find it enlightening to glance back at our technological heritage, understand our present, and envision the promising avenues the future holds.

Autom8 Envisions: Automation — The Future of Work for Today's Youth

As the baton of progress is handed from one generation to the next, the nature of work and business undergoes a transformative shift. At the cusp of such a significant transition, Autom8 takes a moment to reflect on the pivotal role automation will play in shaping the careers and work environment of today’s youth — the workforce of our imminent future.

Quick Savings through Automation: The Autom8 Blueprint

In today’s digital age, businesses are continuously seeking ways to enhance efficiency and bolster their bottom line. At Autom8, we’ve assisted numerous enterprises in navigating this transformative journey. For those on the fence or just starting out, the key question often is: where can we achieve immediate savings with automation? Drawing from our extensive experience, we present a blueprint on the processes ripe for automation, promising you those quick financial wins.

Do I Need to Be Tech-Savvy to Deploy Automation in My Business? – Answered by Autom8

In our rapidly advancing digital landscape, ‘automation’ has emerged as more than just a buzzword. It’s become central to many business conversations, often intertwined with intricate jargon and dense technical discussions. At Autom8, we frequently encounter clients pondering, “Do I truly need to be tech-savvy to incorporate automation into my business?” Let’s navigate this question together.

Autom8 Explains: How Does Tech Relate to Futureproofing Your Business?

In the dynamic business landscape of the 21st century, the term “futureproofing” has grown from a buzzword to a fundamental strategy. The essence of futureproofing lies in equipping your business to withstand and adapt to foreseeable and unforeseen changes. At the forefront of this initiative is technology. As experts in the automation realm, Autom8 offers insights on how technology is pivotal in safeguarding your business’s future.

Revolutionizing Elderly Care: The Promising Role of Robots in Shaping Our Aging Future

As the global population continues to age, the challenge of providing quality care for the elderly becomes increasingly complex. With advancements in technology, a new player is emerging on the stage of aged care: robots. These machines are poised to transform the way we care for our seniors, offering innovative solutions that address both practical and emotional aspects of elder care…

Elevating Guest Experiences: Robotic Innovations in Hospitality

In the dynamic realm of hospitality, where guest satisfaction is paramount, cutting-edge technologies are reshaping the way hotels cater to their patrons. From towel-toting robots by the poolside to robotic luggage handlers in the lobby, automation is transforming the guest experience in ways that were once only imagined in science fiction.

Towel-Toting Robots: Revolutionizing Poolside Comfort in Hotels

In the ever-evolving landscape of hospitality, the quest for enhancing guest experiences knows no bounds. As hotels continue to innovate and embrace technology, a new trend is emerging that is redefining poolside luxury: robots that bring you towels. These automated assistants are making waves in the industry by seamlessly delivering comfort and convenience right to your sun lounger.

Elevating Efficiency in Australian Medical Insurance: Autom8's Role in Transforming Claims Processing

Autom8 specializes in Robotic Process Automation (RPA), Service Robots, and Business AI solutions, which are revolutionizing business operations through advanced automation. With a profound grasp of RPA’s potential, Autom8 empowers businesses to prioritize strategic initiatives, enhance customer experiences, and optimize efficiency. Their industry-specific solutions, supported by skilled professionals, drive quantifiable outcomes. Rooted in a commitment to…

The Boundless Possibilities of Automation: Navigating the Future with Autom8

The rapid evolution of technology has brought with it unparalleled innovations that are transforming industries. Among these transformations, automation stands as one of the most prominent and powerful shifts of the modern era. However, like any evolving realm, it carries complexities that might seem like ‘murky waters’ to many businesses. At Autom8, we pride ourselves on being the compass guiding our clients through these uncharted territories.

Seamless Integration, Even for Legacy Systems: Autom8's Intelligent Automation Approach

The world of automation offers an exciting frontier of opportunities. But for many businesses, there’s a genuine concern: How do we adopt the newest technologies without rendering our existing systems obsolete? This concern becomes particularly pronounced with legacy systems, which often hold essential data and processes but might not be as ‘tech-forward’ as newer systems. At Autom8, we recognise…

Delivery Robots Are Bridging The Gap Arising From The Labor Shortage

Food delivery has come a long way.

Consumer food delivery dates back to the late 19th century when King Umberto and Queen Margherita had a pizza sent to their palace in Naples.

Over 100 years later, consumers—regal or not—have become accustomed to getting food delivered to their homes and offices. But companies are struggling to ensure timely and economical deliveries amidst an unprecedented labor shortage.

The Rise of Service Robots in the Hospitality Industry: Some Actionable Insights

The current wave of service technologies is service robots, “system-based autonomous and adaptable interfaces that interact, communicate and deliver service to an organization’s customers” (Wirtz et al., 2018, p. 4). The spread of Covid-19 has boosted implementation of service robots in the hospitality industry as more consumers become more sensitive to risk of infectious disease from interpersonal interactions. Adoption of service robots could signal low interpersonal contacts…

The Future of RPA in the Healthcare industry

Today, healthcare organisations manage various repetitive tasks and manual integrations to optimise appointment scheduling, digitize patient documentation and accelerate claims processing. With the increasing needs of new-age patients, organisations must consider the digital transformation route to drive growth and efficiency.

Robotic Process Automation (RPA) has emerged as the new medium to create value throughout the healthcare provider supply chain. The implementation of…

45 Unquestionable Advantages and Disadvantages of Robots

Sooner or later robots are going to take over the world.

We’ve all seen terminator. I’m pretty sure that’s where we’re headed.

Indeed, the industrial robotics market alone is predicted to grow 175% in the next 10 years.

The Future of Delivery Robots

Delivery robots – just a few years ago, the stuff of pure science fiction – are now very much a reality and quickly becoming a part of everyday life for many of us. In fact, I will usually come across five or six when I go for an evening jog in my hometown of Milton Keynes, England!

What does Ed Sheeran have in common with Robotic Process Automation?

Bit of a weird question, to be sure but bear with me. If you’ve ever been to an Ed Sheeran concert, you’ll see how he creates the music accompanying a song by recording hooks with his acoustic guitar and a loop pedal. The hooks combine and then playback automatically throughout the song, while Ed of course does what he does best, strumming the melody and regaling the crowd with dulcet tones.

Autom8 Clarifies: Is Automation Really Expensive?

There’s a prevailing myth that has garnered considerable traction among businesses, especially among those yet to embark on the automation journey: “Automation is a luxury, reserved for the deep-pocketed.” At Autom8, we’re keen on setting the record straight. Not only is automation accessible, but with our tailored solutions, it’s structured to be remarkably affordable, even offering monthly packages to ease the investment.

Unpacking the Cost Misconception

Often, when business leaders hear ‘automation’, their minds jump to massive manufacturing robots, sprawling data centres, or intricate AI research. But the world of automation is vast and varied, with solutions tailored for every scale and budget.

Why Automation Can Be More Affordable Than You Think

  1. Scalable Solutions: Automation isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution. With Autom8, you can start small, automating select processes that align with your budget, and scale up as your business grows.
  2. Monthly Packages: We recognise the varied financial landscapes of businesses. Thus, we’ve introduced monthly packages that spread out costs, eliminating the need for hefty upfront investments.
  3. Cost Savings Over Time: The ROI on automation is tangible. While there’s an initial cost, the efficiencies gained — in terms of time, resources, and reduced errors — result in substantial savings in the long run.
  4. Flexibility to Choose: With our diverse suite of tools and solutions, you’re in control. Opt for the tools that address your immediate needs, ensuring you only pay for what’s relevant to your business.
  5. Maintenance and Upgrades Included: Some fear the hidden costs of maintenance and updates. With our monthly packages, we often incorporate these aspects, ensuring transparency and predictability in expenditure.

Beyond Cost: The Value Proposition

  1. Enhanced Productivity: Automation streamlines operations, allowing teams to focus on value-driven tasks. This uplift in productivity translates to improved revenues and growth.
  2. Error Reduction: Automated systems significantly reduce the chance of human errors, ensuring tasks are executed consistently and efficiently, which, in turn, can mitigate potential costs associated with mistakes.
  3. Competitive Advantage: In today’s digital age, customers expect speed and efficiency. Automation equips businesses with these attributes, offering a competitive edge in the market.
  4. Data Insights: Automation tools often come with analytic features, providing businesses with actionable insights. This data-driven approach can guide strategy, ensuring optimal resource allocation and maximised returns.

In Summary

Automation, contrary to some beliefs, is not a financial behemoth, inaccessible to most. It’s a flexible, scalable tool designed to cater to businesses of all sizes and budgets. At Autom8, we’ve tailored our offerings to ensure automation is not just a tech enhancement but an affordable one, packed with value. Our monthly packages further ease the process, making automation not just a feasible choice but a financially astute one.

Autom8 Reflects: The Evolution of Technology and Our Path Forward

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From the first spark of fire to the intricate web of the internet, humanity’s journey with technology has been a testament to our innate desire to innovate, adapt, and progress. At Autom8, as custodians of the latest wave in tech evolution — automation — we find it enlightening to glance back at our technological heritage, understand our present, and envision the promising avenues the future holds.

A Brief Dive into Technological Milestones

  1. The Industrial Revolution: The late 18th century heralded a seismic shift in manufacturing. Steam engines, mechanised textiles, and improved metallurgy techniques transformed industries, leading to urbanisation and fundamentally changing the fabric of society.
  2. The Dawn of Electronics: The 20th century marked the onset of the electronic age. Radios, televisions, and eventually computers entered households, dramatically influencing communication, entertainment, and work.
  3. The Digital & Information Era: The advent of the internet and mobile technology shrunk the world. Information became accessible at our fingertips, businesses went global, and a new age of digital social interaction was birthed.
  4. AI & Automation Today: Fast forward to our current epoch, where artificial intelligence, machine learning, and automation are sculpting the contours of industries, promising unparalleled efficiency, precision, and possibilities.

Charting Our Current Course: The Age of Intelligent Systems

At Autom8, we’re particularly excited about this phase in our technological journey:

  1. Intelligent Automation: Beyond mere task-based automation, intelligent systems can adapt, learn, and provide insights, transforming how businesses operate.
  2. Interconnected IoT: The Internet of Things (IoT) brings the promise of a world where devices communicate seamlessly, from our cars and fridges to industrial machines, creating a vast web of connected intelligence.
  3. Virtual & Augmented Realities: VR and AR are not just for gaming. They’re revolutionising training, design, tourism, and even medicine, creating immersive experiences and practical solutions.
  4. Quantum Computing: Poised to redefine computing, quantum systems promise to solve problems deemed unsolvable today, be it in cryptography, medicine, or complex system simulations.

Envisioning Tomorrow: Autom8’s Glimpse into the Future

  1. Symbiotic AI: We foresee a future where AI doesn’t just work for us but with us, understanding human emotions, nuances, and intentions, leading to a more harmonious human-machine partnership.
  2. Sustainable Tech: With growing environmental concerns, the future of technology will be inextricably linked with sustainability. Green tech, clean energy solutions, and environmentally-friendly innovations will take centre stage.
  3. Democratised Access: We’re working towards a world where technological advancements are not just confined to specific regions or businesses. With cloud computing and as-a-service models, even small businesses and developing regions can harness top-tier tech solutions.

In Conclusion

The tapestry of our technological evolution is woven with threads of curiosity, challenge, and innovation. As we stand on the shoulders of past achievements and peer into the horizons of the future, Autom8 is committed to being a beacon, guiding businesses and individuals towards a brighter, more automated, and intelligent tomorrow.

Autom8 Envisions: Automation — The Future of Work for Today's Youth

As the baton of progress is handed from one generation to the next, the nature of work and business undergoes a transformative shift. At the cusp of such a significant transition, Autom8 takes a moment to reflect on the pivotal role automation will play in shaping the careers and work environment of today’s youth — the workforce of our imminent future.

Embracing the Inevitable Transition

It’s essential to view automation not as a replacement for human effort but as a potent tool amplifying human potential. As today’s children, immersed in technology from their earliest years, mature into professionals, they won’t see automation as an add-on but as an integral part of their work ecosystem.

Why Automation Defines the Future Work Landscape

  1. Digital Natives: Today’s children are growing up in a world where technology is second nature. Their inherent comfort with digital tools means they’ll be primed to harness the benefits of automation seamlessly, bridging the gap between human creativity and technological efficiency.
  2. The Evolution of Job Roles: While automation might streamline certain tasks, it invariably leads to the creation of new, previously non-existent roles. The jobs of tomorrow will focus more on managing, interpreting, and strategizing around the data and outputs produced by automated systems.
  3. Collaborative Workspaces: Automation and AI tools will foster a collaborative work environment. Instead of isolated tasks, the workforce will engage in interdisciplinary roles, where humans and machines collaboratively solve problems and innovate.
  4. Continuous Learning & Adaptability: The pace of technological advancement demands a constant learning mindset. Tomorrow’s professionals will be those who can quickly adapt, learn, and grow alongside their automated counterparts, ensuring they remain at the forefront of their industries.
  5. Enhanced Creativity: With routine tasks being managed by automated systems, the future workforce will have more time and cognitive space for creative, strategic, and innovative thinking — areas where human intelligence shines.

Autom8’s Commitment to the Future

  1. Education & Training: Recognising the importance of preparing the next generation, Autom8 is keen on investing in educational initiatives. We aim to equip the youth with the skills and knowledge to navigate an automated world confidently.
  2. Flexible Solutions for Diverse Needs: As businesses evolve with the influx of a new generation of workers, our automation solutions will remain flexible and adaptable, catering to the dynamic needs of the future.
  3. Promoting a Human-Tech Synergy: Our vision is not just about tech advancement but fostering a harmonious synergy between humans and technology. We’re dedicated to creating solutions that amplify human potential rather than overshadow it.

Ushering in the future

The horizon of the future is painted with the brushstrokes of automation. As the youth of today step into the professional realm, they won’t just be working alongside automation; they’ll be steering it, shaping it, and harnessing its potential in ways we can only begin to imagine. Autom8 stands ready, not just to witness but to facilitate this promising future convergence of humanity and technology.

 

Quick Savings through Automation: The Autom8 Blueprint

In today’s digital age, businesses are continuously seeking ways to enhance efficiency and bolster their bottom line. At Autom8, we’ve assisted numerous enterprises in navigating this transformative journey. For those on the fence or just starting out, the key question often is: where can we achieve immediate savings with automation? Drawing from our extensive experience, we present a blueprint on the processes ripe for automation, promising you those quick financial wins.

  1. Repetitive Administrative Tasks

Autom8’s Insight: Administrative tasks, though foundational, can quickly eat into an employee’s productive hours. Automating these routines not only unlocks time but also curtails human errors.

Our Recommendations:

  • Invoice Processing: Our tools seamlessly extract data from invoices, align them to purchase orders, and can facilitate automated payments.
  • Data Entry: We integrate systems and introduce bots to transfer data across platforms, reducing manual entries.
  • Appointment Scheduling: Our solutions enable clients or partners to self-book, eliminating the manual coordination dance.
  1. Customer Service and Support

Autom8’s Insight: In the age of instant gratification, rapid responses boost customer loyalty. Automation is your ally in delivering swift, 24/7 support.

Our Recommendations:

  • Chatbots: With Autom8’s AI-powered chatbots, answer queries, guide users, or even resolve basic challenges in real-time.
  • Ticketing Systems: We help in automating ticket creation, categorisation, and delegation, ensuring quicker resolutions.
  1. HR Processes: From Onboarding to Employee Engagement

Autom8’s Insight: HR juggles diverse roles, from hiring to fostering employee growth. With our automation suite, these tasks become more streamlined and consistent.

Our Recommendations:

  • Onboarding Processes: Autom8 ensures a smooth entry for new hires, from document collection to induction schedules.
  • Leave Management: With our systems, leave applications and approvals are a breeze, sans any manual interventions.
  1. Inventory and Supply Chain Management

Autom8’s Insight: Inefficient inventory management can inflate costs. Our automation tools provide timely insights, ensuring you neither overstock nor understock.

Our Recommendations:

  • Stock Alerts: Our solutions notify you well in advance when inventory levels teeter close to your set thresholds.
  • Automated Purchase Orders: Based on inventory data and sales projections, we can automate purchase orders, reducing manual oversight.
  1. Data Backups and Synchronisations

Autom8’s Insight: In our data-driven world, its safety and consistency are paramount. We’re here to safeguard it.

Our Recommendations:

  • Timely Backups: Autom8 sets up scheduled backups, ensuring your business data is always protected.
  • Data Sync: If your business relies on multiple tools, we ensure data remains consistent across all of them.
  1. Turbocharging Marketing Efforts

Autom8’s Insight: Engaging customers effectively requires timely and relevant communication. We make this effortless.

Our Recommendations:

  • Tailored Email Marketing: Segment audiences and dispatch personalised messages based on user actions with our automation tools.
  • Social Media Efficiency: Schedule posts and employ our analytics tools to discern optimal posting times.

Conclusion

At Autom8, while we champion automation, we believe in a judicious approach. Every process doesn’t need automation; it’s about identifying the areas where automation aligns with business goals, delivering tangible savings. By focusing on these areas, we ensure our clients not only witness immediate savings but also set the stage for more intricate, long-term automation strategies. Your efficiency journey begins here, and we’re thrilled to be your chosen guide.

Do I Need to Be Tech-Savvy to Deploy Automation in My Business? – Answered by Autom8

In our rapidly advancing digital landscape, ‘automation’ has emerged as more than just a buzzword. It’s become central to many business conversations, often intertwined with intricate jargon and dense technical discussions. At Autom8, we frequently encounter clients pondering, “Do I truly need to be tech-savvy to incorporate automation into my business?” Let’s navigate this question together.

Understanding Automation’s Essence

Automation, fundamentally, is a tool for simplifying processes, amplifying efficiency, and redirecting human resources to more strategic tasks. If the primary goal of automation is simplification, does it necessitate a deep technical prowess on your part? The succinct answer: No. Let’s unpack this further.

Debunking the ‘Tech-Only’ Domain Myth

  1. A Unified Endeavour: Automation is not an isolated tech operation but a synergy between a business’s operational insight and technical prowess. While a rudimentary grasp of technology can be an asset, it’s far from essential. Your expertise lies in understanding your business’s needs and goals. Tech specialists, like us at Autom8, finesse how automation fits into this equation.
  2. Intuitive Automation Solutions: The automation tools today are tailored for optimal user experience. With features like user-friendly dashboards, drag-and-drop functions, and step-by-step tutorials, even those new to technology can harness basic automation capabilities.
  3. Trusting the Experts: This is where Autom8 steps in. Recognising that not every business leader is a tech aficionado, we offer our expertise. Just as you’d consult an accountant for fiscal affairs, Autom8 stands ready to help you seamlessly weave automation into your business fabric.

Embracing Automation sans Technical Mastery

  1. Initiate with Simplicity: Kick off by automating rudimentary tasks, like scheduling, setting reminders, or elementary data entry jobs. As you find your footing, you can progress to intricate automation landscapes.
  2. Never Stop Learning: Even without tech expertise, a proactive approach to learning always pays dividends. Engage in webinars, workshops, or courses that introduce you to the foundational tenets of industry-relevant automation.
  3. Collaborate or Recruit: For ambitious, large-scale automation aspirations, think about either collaborating with experts like Autom8 or bringing a dedicated team onboard. This ensures the technicalities are covered, allowing you to concentrate on overarching strategies and growth.
  4. Maintain an Open Dialogue: Regularly solicit feedback from your team. Their ground-level insights can spotlight processes that, when automated, could substantially uplift productivity and morale.

Concluding Thoughts

In a world propelled by ceaseless tech advancements, feeling a tad overwhelmed or outpaced is natural for those not technologically inclined. But it’s crucial to anchor the understanding that tech, including automation, is merely a facilitator—a bridge to achieve broader business visions.

Your core concentration should remain affixed to your business’s aims, growth blueprints, and the well-being of your team. Armed with the right collaborators, tools, and perspective, transitioning to automation becomes a fluid, value-driven journey, irrespective of your tech familiarity—or the lack of it. With Autom8 by your side, consider this journey already half-accomplished.

Autom8 Explains: How Does Tech Relate to Futureproofing Your Business?

In the dynamic business landscape of the 21st century, the term “futureproofing” has grown from a buzzword to a fundamental strategy. The essence of futureproofing lies in equipping your business to withstand and adapt to foreseeable and unforeseen changes. At the forefront of this initiative is technology. As experts in the automation realm, Autom8 offers insights on how technology is pivotal in safeguarding your business’s future.

The Evolving Business Environment

Change is the only constant, more so in the world of business. With globalisation, digital transformation, and shifting consumer behaviours, companies must adapt swiftly or risk obsolescence. Technology not only facilitates this adaptation but also enables businesses to anticipate and prepare for the future.

Why Tech is Central to Futureproofing

  1. Enhanced Agility: Modern technological tools, from cloud computing to advanced analytics, allow businesses to swiftly adjust to market changes. These tools streamline operations, fostering an agile environment that responds proactively to evolving consumer needs.
  2. Data-Driven Decisions: In today’s data-rich age, making decisions based on gut feeling is passé. Technologies like Big Data and AI-driven analytics empower businesses with actionable insights, making decision-making more predictive and accurate.
  3. Operational Efficiency: Automation, a subset of technology, transforms mundane, repetitive tasks. By automating these aspects, businesses not only boost efficiency but also free up human resources for more strategic, value-driven work.
  4. Staying Relevant: With rapid digitalisation, consumers now expect seamless digital experiences. Technologies, from e-commerce platforms to mobile apps, ensure that businesses remain relevant, meeting and exceeding customer expectations.
  5. Risk Management: Advanced tech tools can identify and mitigate risks, be it cybersecurity threats or supply chain disruptions. A robust tech framework is paramount in safeguarding a company’s assets, data, and reputation.
  6. Innovation and R&D: Technology accelerates research and development, fostering a culture of innovation. With tools like 3D printing, virtual reality, and AI simulations, businesses can prototype and test new products and services faster than ever before.

The Autom8 Approach to Technological Futureproofing

  1. Personalised Consultation: Recognising that every business is unique, we initiate our approach with a comprehensive consultation, understanding your specific needs and aspirations.
  2. Holistic Solutions: We believe in offering not just isolated tech solutions but a holistic strategy. Our solutions integrate seamlessly into your existing operations, amplifying overall efficacy.
  3. Continuous Learning & Upgrades: Tech landscapes evolve continuously. At Autom8, we ensure that your business stays updated, benefitting from the latest tech innovations and trends.
  4. Empowering Your Workforce: A tech-driven business transformation is only as effective as its users. We offer training sessions, ensuring your team is adept at harnessing the full potential of the introduced technologies.

In Conclusion

The nexus between technology and futureproofing is undeniable. As the business terrains become more intricate and competitive, embracing technology isn’t just about keeping up—it’s about thriving, innovating, and leading. And with Autom8 as your tech partner, you’re not just bracing for the future; you’re shaping it.

Revolutionizing Elderly Care: The Promising Role of Robots in Shaping Our Aging Future

As the global population continues to age, the challenge of providing quality care for the elderly becomes increasingly complex. With advancements in technology, a new player is emerging on the stage of aged care: robots. These machines are poised to transform the way we care for our seniors, offering innovative solutions that address both practical and emotional aspects of elder care.

Rising to the Challenge: The Aging Population and Care Dilemma

The world is undergoing a demographic shift, with a rapidly increasing aging population. This demographic change has significant implications for healthcare systems, social structures, and families. As the number of elderly individuals grows, so do the demands for comprehensive and personalized care, often surpassing the capacity of traditional care models.

The Multifaceted Role of Robots in Aged Care:

Robots designed for aged care are not just machines; they are potential companions, caregivers, and assistants. They have the capability to support seniors in various ways:

Physical Assistance:

Robots can assist elderly individuals with activities of daily living, such as bathing, dressing, and mobility support. With advanced sensors and gentle mechanical movements, these robots can ensure the safety and comfort of their users.

Medication Management:

Reminding seniors to take their medications on time can be a challenge. Robots equipped with reminders and dispensing mechanisms can ensure medication adherence, reducing the risk of health complications.

Companionship and Mental Health:

Loneliness and isolation are common challenges faced by many seniors. Social robots can provide companionship, engage in conversations, play games, and even offer mental and emotional support. These interactions can help combat feelings of loneliness and improve overall mental well-being.

Remote Monitoring:

Telepresence robots enable family members and caregivers to remotely check in on their elderly loved ones. These robots can navigate through the home, allowing family members to virtually be present and address urgent needs.

Fall Detection and Emergency Response:

Falls are a major concern for seniors. Robots equipped with fall detection capabilities can alert caregivers or emergency services in real-time, ensuring swift response in case of accidents.

Ethical Considerations and Human Touch:

While robots offer numerous benefits in aged care, ethical considerations are crucial. Striking a balance between automation and human touch is essential to maintain the emotional well-being of elderly individuals. Robots should complement, not replace, human caregivers, as genuine human interactions play a vital role in providing emotional support and empathy.

Challenges and Implementation:

Implementing robotic technology in aged care presents both technical and practical challenges. Ensuring the robots are user-friendly, culturally sensitive, and capable of adapting to individual needs is paramount. Additionally, cost considerations, data privacy, and concerns about job displacement must be addressed as part of the implementation process.

A Glimpse into the Future:

The integration of robots in aged care holds tremendous potential to reshape the way we support and care for our elderly population. These machines have the ability to enhance quality of life, improve health outcomes, and alleviate the burden on caregivers. As technology continues to advance, we can expect even more sophisticated and tailored solutions that cater to the unique needs of each individual.

Elevating Guest Experiences: Robotic Innovations in Hospitality

In the dynamic realm of hospitality, where guest satisfaction is paramount, cutting-edge technologies are reshaping the way hotels cater to their patrons. From towel-toting robots by the poolside to robotic luggage handlers in the lobby, automation is transforming the guest experience in ways that were once only imagined in science fiction.

Robotic Towel Delivery and Luggage Handling: A Harmonious Blend

Imagine a scenario where you’re lounging by the pool, soaking in the sun’s warmth, when a friendly robot glides over, offering you a fresh stack of towels. This futuristic vision is now a reality at select hotels, where towel-toting robots are revolutionizing poolside comfort. Simultaneously, the integration of robots into luggage handling has transformed the way guests transition from check-in to their rooms.

Seamless Efficiency and Guest Delight

Traditionally, the simple act of obtaining towels at the poolside or ensuring a smooth check-in process required interaction with staff or navigating to designated areas. Today, technology is streamlining these tasks with the help of robots. Guests can request towels through mobile apps, and robots promptly deliver them to their location. This eliminates the need for guests to interrupt their relaxation or wait in lines, making the experience both efficient and enjoyable.

Beyond the practical benefits, these robots add an element of excitement and novelty to the guest experience. Interacting with robots becomes a memorable and engaging activity that enhances the hotel’s overall brand image. These robots have evolved beyond mere mechanical assistants; they embody a hotel’s commitment to innovation and guest-centric service.

Precision and Human-Centric Care

Robotic towel delivery and luggage handling offer not only precision but also a seamless integration of human touch. Towel-toting robots navigate through poolside areas with ease, ensuring timely towel delivery. On the other hand, robotic luggage handlers expertly transport belongings from check-in to guest rooms. This marriage of efficiency and human-centric care strikes a balance that elevates the guest experience.

The Future Unveiled: Challenges and Prospects

While the integration of robots in hospitality services is promising, it also comes with challenges. Ensuring technical reliability, addressing battery life concerns, and managing the balance between automation and personalized interactions are critical considerations. Overcoming these obstacles will pave the way for even more advanced innovations that cater to guests’ evolving needs.

The future holds the potential for robots to become even more integral to the guest experience. Imagine robots offering multilingual interactions, suggesting personalized services, or even providing information about local attractions. The possibilities are limitless, ensuring that the fusion of technology and hospitality remains dynamic and forward-thinking.

Conclusion: Towel-Toting Robots and Luggage Handlers Redefine Hospitality

Robotic towel delivery and luggage handling exemplify how technology is harmonizing with hospitality to enhance guest experiences. By blending efficiency, innovation, and guest delight, hotels are redefining poolside relaxation and the check-in process. These robots are not just assistants; they’re ambassadors of a new era in hospitality, one where automation enhances the core values of comfort, convenience, and exceptional service.

In a world where guest expectations evolve, robotic innovations stand as a testament to the industry’s commitment to delivering extraordinary experiences. Towel-toting robots and luggage handlers are leading the way, ensuring that the fusion of technology and hospitality remains both exciting and indispensable.

Towel-Toting Robots: Revolutionizing Poolside Comfort in Hotels

In the ever-evolving landscape of hospitality, the quest for enhancing guest experiences knows no bounds. As hotels continue to innovate and embrace technology, a new trend is emerging that is redefining poolside luxury: robots that bring you towels. These automated assistants are making waves in the industry by seamlessly delivering comfort and convenience right to your sun lounger.

A Refreshing Twist: The Rise of Towel-Toting Robots

Picture yourself lounging by the pool, basking in the sun’s warmth. Suddenly, a friendly robot glides towards you, carrying a stack of fresh, fluffy towels. This scenario, once reserved for the realms of science fiction, is now a reality at select hotels. Towel-toting robots are transforming the way guests experience poolside relaxation, offering an innovative blend of technology and hospitality.

Efficiency Meets Guest Delight:

Traditionally, obtaining towels at the poolside involved signaling a staff member or navigating to a designated towel station. With towel-toting robots, this process becomes both efficient and enjoyable. Guests can now request fresh towels with a simple tap on a mobile app, and the robot is dispatched to deliver towels directly to their location. This streamlines the experience and eliminates the need for guests to interrupt their relaxation.

Seamless Integration with Guest Experience:

Beyond convenience, towel-delivering robots elevate the overall guest experience. The novelty of interacting with a robot adds an element of excitement and intrigue, creating memorable moments that guests are likely to share with friends and family. These robots become more than mere assistants; they become part of the hotel’s identity, enhancing the brand’s image as forward-thinking and customer centric.

Precision and Consistency:

Towel-toting robots excel in precision and consistency. They navigate through outdoor spaces with ease, avoiding obstacles and ensuring that towels are delivered promptly. This level of reliability contributes to a seamless guest experience, and the elimination of potential human errors ensures that guests always receive towels that are fresh and clean.

Challenges and Future Prospects:

While towel-delivering robots offer numerous benefits, there are challenges to navigate. Technical glitches, battery life, and maintaining a balance between automation and human interaction are aspects that require careful consideration. Striking the right balance will be crucial in ensuring that guests feel both attended to and valued.

As technology continues to advance, the future of towel-toting robots holds even more promise. Imagine robots capable of interacting in multiple languages, suggesting sunscreen application times, or even offering a refreshing beverage. These innovations have the potential to transform poolside experiences from mere relaxation to personalized indulgence.

Conclusion: Diving into the Future of Hospitality

Towel-toting robots exemplify how technology can seamlessly enhance traditional hospitality services, creating delightful interactions that resonate with guests. By combining efficiency, innovation, and guest delight, hotels are embracing a new era where the poolside experience is reimagined through the lens of automation.

In a world where guest expectations are constantly evolving, towel-toting robots represent a bold step forward in crafting exceptional experiences. As hotels continue to explore the possibilities of technology, these robots shine as a beacon of how innovation can enhance comfort, convenience, and the overall enjoyment of every guest’s stay.

Elevating Efficiency in Australian Medical Insurance: Autom8's Role in Transforming Claims Processing

Autom8 specializes in Robotic Process Automation (RPA), Service Robots, and Business AI solutions, which are revolutionizing business operations through advanced automation. With a profound grasp of RPA’s potential, Autom8 empowers businesses to prioritize strategic initiatives, enhance customer experiences, and optimize efficiency. Their industry-specific solutions, supported by skilled professionals, drive quantifiable outcomes. Rooted in a commitment to innovation, Autom8 maintains a leading position in automation and AI, enabling clients to unlock workforce potential and attain a competitive advantage.

Zero-touch claim lodgment is a prominent feature. To exemplify, consider the role of a client, an Australian Medical Insurance claims bot. In the past, when customers submitted claims online, manual intervention was necessary to locate pertinent information, cross-reference it with internal systems, validate policy details, and forward the claim to case management. Post-automation, the core process remains unchanged: customers submit claims online. Instead of human intervention, bots now take over, performing initial evaluations based on predefined criteria. If a bot is equipped to handle the claim, it emulates human actions by accessing various systems, aggregating data, and dispatching it to case management.

For complex cases beyond the bot’s capabilities, the bot promptly notifies human staff for manual intervention. In essence, this summarizes the bot’s role in processing insurance claims. Bots operate in a binary manner, executing tasks flawlessly when configured accurately. For the Australian medical insurance, barring human interference, the entire claim process is completed by the bot. Between January and July 2023, the insurer’s claims bot managed around 10,000 claims.

Autom8 asserts that bot errors only stem from human errors during bot programming. When instructions are accurately transcribed and bots are configured correctly, errors are eliminated. Bots only seek human assistance when uncertain about a task. Autom8 emphasizes the symbiotic relationship between robots and humans, where robots supplement rather than replace human roles.

Previously, concerns existed about robots displacing human jobs before automation’s practicality became evident. However, as demonstrated in medical insurance RPA implementation, the goal is to complement human labor, not supplant it.

Autom8 reports a surge in adoption rates over the past few years. While initially adopted by major global insurance companies, smaller underwriters are now embracing the technology, recognizing RPA’s transformative potential in streamlining processes and enhancing customer interactions.

RPA eliminates time-consuming tasks, allowing employees to concentrate on value-added activities like direct customer interactions. This includes tasks such as data entry, which is error-prone for humans but seamless for bots. Furthermore, RPA’s benefits extend beyond efficiency to comprehensive documentation, facilitating data-driven insights for process improvement.

Autom8 believes that with RPA in place, businesses can analyse process logs and derive insights to address issues at their source. This data-driven approach enables businesses to identify trends, anomalies, and opportunities for optimization.

The Boundless Possibilities of Automation: Navigating the Future with Autom8

The rapid evolution of technology has brought with it unparalleled innovations that are transforming industries. Among these transformations, automation stands as one of the most prominent and powerful shifts of the modern era. However, like any evolving realm, it carries complexities that might seem like ‘murky waters’ to many businesses. At Autom8, we pride ourselves on being the compass guiding our clients through these uncharted territories.

The Expanse of Automation

It is pivotal to understand that automation is not just about robots replacing humans in factories. It permeates every industry, from customer service with chatbots to data processing using artificial intelligence. With the Internet of Things (IoT), even our homes and cars are becoming automated. The possibilities are limitless. But with every possibility comes a myriad of choices, concerns, and challenges.

Challenges in the Path of Automation

  1. Choice Overload: With a vast array of technological solutions available, companies can easily become overwhelmed. Which automation tools are right for a particular business? Which ones offer the best ROI?
  2. Integration Concerns: How can businesses ensure that new automation tools integrate seamlessly with existing systems?
  3. Employee Apprehension: There’s a prevailing belief that automation will take away jobs. How can companies address these concerns while still reaping the benefits of automation?
  4. Staying Updated: As technology evolves, how do businesses keep their automation systems up to date without constant reinvestment?

How Autom8 Clears the Fog

  1. Personalized Consultations: We understand that every business is unique. Our team at Autom8 begins by understanding your unique needs, challenges, and aspirations. This allows us to tailor automation solutions that align perfectly with your goals.
  2. Seamless Integrations: We have a wealth of experience in ensuring that our automation solutions integrate harmoniously with your existing systems, ensuring a smooth transition.
  3. Educational Workshops: We believe in empowering your team. By conducting workshops, we demystify automation, helping employees see it as a tool to augment their capabilities, not replace them.
  4. Long-term Support: Technology’s only constant is change. We are not just here for the initial setup; we are your long-term partners. We ensure that your systems remain current and optimized, without necessitating regular overhauls.

The Future is Bright, Not Bleak

While automation will inevitably reshape the landscape of work, it is a change we can embrace optimistically. Automation does not aim to eliminate the human touch but to augment it. It takes over repetitive tasks, granting humans the freedom to pursue more creative, value-driven endeavours.

At Autom8, we believe in a future where automation and humans coexist, enriching each other. And we are here to ensure that every business, no matter its size or domain, can confidently step into this future, making the most of the endless possibilities it offers.

Seamless Integration, Even for Legacy Systems: Autom8's Intelligent Automation Approach

The world of automation offers an exciting frontier of opportunities. But for many businesses, there’s a genuine concern: How do we adopt the newest technologies without rendering our existing systems obsolete? This concern becomes particularly pronounced with legacy systems, which often hold essential data and processes but might not be as ‘tech-forward’ as newer systems. At Autom8, we recognise this challenge and have designed our intelligent automation solutions to integrate seamlessly, even with legacy systems.

Understanding the Legacy Challenge

Legacy systems are like the old trees in a forest – they’ve been there for ages, are robust, and have seen the surrounding environment change. These systems, often designed decades ago, may not have the flexibility of newer platforms but are integral to the operations of many companies. Directly replacing them is not just costly but can lead to a loss of vital historical data and process disruptions. Hence, integration, rather than replacement, is the key.

The Autom8 Approach to Integration

  1. Deep Dive Analysis: Before embarking on any integration process, our team at Autom8 conducts an in-depth analysis of your legacy systems. We identify how data flows, the software’s architecture, and its interdependencies with other systems.
  2. Custom Adapters and Middleware: Recognising that one size doesn’t fit all, we develop custom adapters or middleware solutions. These act as ‘translators’, allowing the legacy system to communicate efficiently with newer automation tools.
  3. Data Preservation: One of the biggest fears with integration is data loss. Our intelligent automation solutions ensure that all existing data within the legacy system remains intact and is easily accessible post-integration.
  4. Layered Approach: Instead of a complete overhaul, we often employ a layered approach. Newer automation tools are layered on top of the existing legacy systems, ensuring that they work in tandem.
  5. Training & Support: A system is only as effective as the people using it. We provide comprehensive training to ensure your team can leverage the full potential of the newly integrated system. Furthermore, our support doesn’t end post-integration. We remain your steadfast partners, ensuring smooth operations and updates as needed.

Beyond Integration: Driving Efficiency

Integrating legacy systems with our intelligent automation solutions doesn’t just mean ‘making it work’. It’s about enhancing the overall efficiency. Automated data extraction, process streamlining, and AI-driven insights are just some of the benefits clients can expect after integration. In essence, we breathe new life into your legacy systems, ensuring they’re not just compatible but are also competitive in the modern business landscape.

Conclusion

Legacy systems present a unique challenge, but they’re far from insurmountable. With the right approach and expertise, these systems can continue to serve as the backbone of your operations, enhanced and augmented by the capabilities of intelligent automation. At Autom8, we’re committed to ensuring that every company, regardless of the age or sophistication of their systems, can step confidently into the future of automation.

Delivery Robots Are Bridging The Gap Arising From The Labor Shortage

Forbes Technology Council Post 
Ritukar Vijay is the CEO and co-founder of Ottonomy.io — a delivery robotics company.  – Forbes Councils Member

Food delivery has come a long way.

Consumer food delivery dates back to the late 19th century when King Umberto and Queen Margherita had a pizza sent to their palace in Naples.

Over 100 years later, consumers—regal or not—have become accustomed to getting food delivered to their homes and offices. But companies are struggling to ensure timely and economical deliveries amidst an unprecedented labor shortage.

According to the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, 47 million U.S. workers quit their jobs in 2021 to find better-paying opportunities, to achieve a better work-life balance or to search for a corporate culture that is more amenable to their lifestyle.

While the labor shortage is good news for workers, as it enables them to drive a better bargain for themselves, it has significant repercussions for companies whose customers are accustomed to getting deliveries done at a time and place of their choice. But these companies, which deliver everything from bagels to Barbie Dolls to customers, aren’t standing still. Instead, they’re turning to delivery robots to ensure timely deliveries and to meet ever-increasing consumer needs. This urgent gap in the market is what propelled our company to build a fully autonomous delivery robot. With my background in autonomous vehicle technology and our team’s deep experience in robotics, we merged the two ideas to address this more immediate need and have been seeing tremendous traction in retail, restaurants and airports.

Why Delivery Robotics?

• Hotels like Hilton and Marriott are using AI and robots to deliver meals, wine bottles and dry cleaning, among other goods, to guests.

• Delivery companies like GrubHub and Uber Eats are getting into the robotics game, too, partnering with robot companies to get meals to customers safely and efficiently.

• Major retailers are expanding their robot deployments from warehouses to customer-facing roles. In January 2019, Amazon rolled out Scout, its new self-driving delivery robot. Federal Express has its own delivery robot called Roxo.

• Airports like Cincinnati International Airport are already using autonomous delivery robots to deliver food and goods to guests from retailers to their terminals.

What do these brand-name companies see as “upsides” in delivery robotics?

To start, robots are faster, affordable, safer and trackable. Delivery robots can also interact with customers, pose no threat to human drivers and bicyclists, and are environmentally friendly to boot.

Filling The Labor Gap

It’s the labor landscape where deliverable robots are capable of making the biggest difference. “With labor shortages throughout manufacturing, logistics, and virtually every other industry, companies of all sizes are increasingly turning to robotics and automation to stay productive and competitive,” said Jeff Burnstein, president of the Association of Advancing Automation, in a statement.

The reasons why so many companies are opting for delivery robots are understandable—and necessary.

They’re augmenting the lack of human workers. Ask a company that’s deploying delivery robots, and they’ll say the shift to technology is an aid and not a replacement for humans. Robots that deliver pizzas or serve customers are doing a job that humans don’t want to do—at least right now.

They’re saving companies money. Companies in the hotel and restaurant sectors operate on thin profit margins.

The long shadow of Covid has left restaurants, pubs, and coffee shops in a precarious financial position. Additionally, the high inflation rate, which is driving prices of goods and services upward, is creating additional strain on the margins.

With delivery robots, these companies can leverage efficient and budget-friendly solutions to get food and drinks to customers fast. That not only enhances the user experience but it allows hotels, resorts, and restaurants to insulate themselves from labor shortages and improve the trust and reliability aspects of their personal brands.

Consumers are warming up to robot deliveries. Data shows that customers are comfortable with robots at their doorstep.

According to The Robot Report, if consumers knew an online order would be delivered by a robot, “73% of respondents would still place the order.” Numbers are also rising (on a worldwide basis), showing that consumer sentiment is increasingly positive on robot and drone deliveries going forward, with China, the U.S. and U.K. consumers especially bullish on delivery robots.

The Takeaway On Robots In The Era Of The “Great Resignation”

With only about 10% of job-seekers describing their job search as “urgent,” businesses that rely on dependable deliveries to customers increasingly have fewer options with human workers these days.

Delivery robots are now helping business owners manage the return to pre-pandemic business practices—and some semblance of normalcy. Despite the labor shortage, companies are now capable of providing better service and customer experience.

The Rise of Service Robots in the Hospitality Industry: Some Actionable Insights

What Roles Can Service Robots Play?

Service robots can be equipped with different levels of artificial intelligence: mechanical, analytical, intuitive, and empathetic (Huang & Rust, 2018). Mechanical intelligence relates to standardized and transactional tasks, which require a minimal level of learning (e.g., YO2D2, a room service robot, at Yotel Boston). Analytical intelligence is based on systematic and rule-based learning from big data and enables logical thinking in decision-making. For example, chatbots find an appropriate answer to customer enquiry, retrieving it from big data collected from customer FAQ. Service robots with these two levels of intelligence can basically handle functional tasks such as delivering food and answering a customer’s question. They free human staff from the high volume of trivial customer requests rather than taking higher-value roles.

Intuitive intelligence relates to the capability to process holistic and contextual thinking and thus provide personalized services. Empathetic intelligence refers to the ability to recognize and appropriately respond to people’s emotions. This “highest” level of intelligence enables service robots to deliver socially and emotionally interactive services, which is the ultimate goal of service robotics (Rafaeli et al., 2017). These two levels of intelligence focus on emotional and social capabilities of technology to enhance consumers’ service experience (Huang & Rust, 2018). Current service robot technologies have been developing a higher level of intelligence to make customer engagement with frontline robots more intuitive and natural. Alternatively, to overcome the limited social and emotional capacity of robots, human staff and service robots can collaborate so that service robots do the mechanical and analytical work, and human staff deal with emotional tasks. For instance, during the check-in process, a service robot can deliver luggage to the assigned room, while the human staff provides the guest with a warm reception.

What Makes Consumers Adopt Robots?

When implementing service robots, particularly customer-contact robots, companies should first consider the key factors that influence consumers’ adoption/acceptance of the new technology.

Building on the classic technology acceptance model (Davis, 1989), the service robot acceptance model suggests that consumers’ acceptance of service robots is determined not only by its functionality (e.g., perceived usefulness and ease of use), but also by social-emotional and relational elements that robots can provide (Wirtz et al., 2018). For the social-emotional dimension, the model shows that perceived humanness of service robots through their appearance and social actions (e.g., smiling) can influence consumers’ attitudes and willingness to interact with them (Breazeal, 2003; Tinwell et al., 2011). Moreover, for the relational dimension, consumers can trust and thus accept service robots when they feel secure and comfortable with the technology (Wirtz et al., 2018). The trust building can also be achieved by its human-like attributes including service robots’ appearance and emotional displays (Tinwell et al., 2011).

Together, as service robots are able to engage consumers on a social level like human employees (Wirtz et al., 2018), their capability to meet consumers’ social-emotional and relational needs is critical in consumer acceptance and perception of service robots. Service robot acceptance can be influenced by the extent to which they can provide enjoyable interactions – a feeling of care and friendliness, and personal connection to consumers (i.e., rapport). Supporting this notion, Tung and Au (2018) examined guest experiences with robots analyzing online reviews from hotels and found that a considerable number of reviewers commented on service robots’ physical embodiment and social interactivity.

For this reason, a large body of previous research on service robotics explains consumer perceptions of service robots based on the extent to which consumers treat robots as human beings (i.e., anthropomorphism, the psychological tendency to attribute human characteristics, intentions, and emotions to nonhuman objects; Epley, Waytz, & Cacioppo, 2007). Robots with a greater number of human-like features, such as face, voice, and movement (e.g., Sophia by Hanson Robotics or Pepper by Softbank Robotics), are perceived to be more human-like than those with fewer of these features.

Advantages of Being Human-like for Service Robots

Based on the robotics literature arguing the advantage of anthropomorphism on user involvement (Broadbent, 2017), a stream of hospitality literature demonstrates the positive impacts of human-likeness of service robots on consumer intention to adopt service robots. Scholars find that the greater consumers anthropomorphize service robots, the more positive emotions and stronger trust they feel towards the robots, thereby increasing adoption intentions (Chi, Gursoy, & Chi, 2020; Lin, Chi, & Gursoy, 2020; Shi, Gong, & Gursoy, 2020). Moreover, consumers are more likely to expect better service quality provided by human-like service robots (Christou, Simillidou, & Stylianou, 2020; Lin & Mattila, 2021; Qiu et al., 2020; Yoganathan et al., 2021). Zhu and Chang (2019) found that people expect food quality to be better when they anthropomorphize robotic chefs. More interestingly, it is found that consumers expect service robots to behave like humans when they look like human beings. For example, when interacting with human-like service robots, people evaluated the service encounter more positively when the robots used human-like language styles (Choi, Liu, & Mattila, 2019; Lu, Zhang, & Zhang, 2021). Also, consumers assume service robots and human staff are supposed to play similar roles, and thus expect service robots to engage in service recovery efforts as human staff members do (Ho, Tojib, & Tsareko, 2020). Taken together, the main takeaway of the evidence for hospitality managers is that adding human-like features in service robots may help boost consumer satisfaction in automated service encounters.

Are There Any Caveats for Being Human-like for Service Robots?

On the other hand, supporting the notion of the uncanny valley (Mori, MacDorman, & Kageki, 2012), another stream of hospitality literature argues negative or null effects of human-likeness of service robots. Compared to human staff members, consumers tend to perceive that human-like service robots lack interpersonal skills, which is in fact one of important drivers of service encounter satisfaction in the hospitality industry (Choi et al., 2020; Hu, Min, & Su, 2021). Thus, when a service failure occurs, consumers are less likely to accept a service robot’s apology than a human staff member’s apology (Hu et al., 2021). Moreover, some research shows that human-like appearances of service robots result in feelings of discomfort, thereby making the consumer feel reluctant to interact with the robot (Shin & Jeong, 2020; Yu, 2020). That is, hospitality managers should be more cautious in implementing (extremely) human-like service robots, particularly when they are taking care of tasks with frequent interactions with customers.

Such different responses from consumers towards humanoid service robots indicate that there are various external factors that shape consumer responses. The factors can be categorized into consumers’ individual factors (e.g., innovativeness) and situational/contextual factors (e.g., crowdedness). For instance, consumers who are more innovative, open to new technologies, and less desiring of human interactions in service encounters tend to show more favorable attitudes toward humanoid service robots than their counterparts (Hu et al., 2021; Kim, Choe, & Hwang, 2020; Tussyadiah, Zach, & Wang, 2020; Yoganathan et al., 2021). Moreover, consumers show a stronger preference of adopting service robots when they have a strong motivation of social withdrawal, such as when there is a threat of contagious disease and when the area is too crowded with other people (Hou, Zhang, & Li, 2021; Kim et al., 2021).

Cross-Cultural Differences Between Consumer Reactions to Service Robots

In addition to the aforementioned factors, another influential factor that will affect consumer adoption of service robots is culture. Despite its importance, cross-cultural perspectives in service robotics have not yet been developed in the hospitality literature. Hence, we will introduce previous research in social robotics literature to provide an initial idea of consumer perceptions of services provided by humanoid service robots, based on cross-cultural views.

How and why do Westerners and East Asians view robots differently? First, influenced by Buddhism and Confucianism, East Asians believe not only humans but also non-human objects including gods, animals, and even stones, have their own spirit and mind. On the contrary, from the Western perspective, heavily influenced by Christianity, humans are unique entities. Therefore, unlike Eastern cultures, those in Western cultures find it more difficult to believe and treat human-like robots as human beings (Geraci, 2006). Second, Western cultures tend to be more analytic, whereas East Asian cultures tend to be more holistic in their cognitive systems (Nisbett et al., 2001). Analytic cognition is characterized by rules-based categorization of objects and the use of formal logic in reasoning. Holistic cognition is characterized by categorizing objects based on themes and a focus on contextual information (Nisbett et al., 2001). Therefore, interacting with human-like robots may arouse more cognitive discomfort and ambivalent attitudes for Westerners than for East Asians (Dang & Liu, 2021). For instance, East Asians tend to describe robots as both highly competent and warm, while Westerners tend to describe them as competent but cold (Lee & Sabanovic, 2014). Also, Li et al. (2019) found that Chinese users tend to perceive the robots as more autonomous and flexible in decision-making, whereas American users tend to treat the robots as practical assistants following predefined orders (Lee & Sabanovic, 2014; Ray, Mondafa, & Siergwart, 2008). Moreover, during Covid-19, Chinese consumers indicate stronger preferences for robot-staffed hotels over human-staffed hotels than their American counterparts (Wan, Chan, & Luo, 2020). In other words, the use of service robots to reduce perceived risk of virus transmission and encourage visits could be more salient in collectivistic cultures (i.e. China). This could be attributed to more reliance on interpersonal cues in decision-making for collectivists.

Taken together, the evidence indicates consumers with different cultural backgrounds can respond to and treat service robots differently. This area has been underexplored by scholars so far, and thus could be potentially promising avenues for future research. Deeper understanding of these cultural differences would allow hospitality managers to strategically use different types and/or different features of service robots to maximize consumer satisfaction in automated service encounters.

Practical Implications for Hospitality Managers

Service robots are becoming more and more popular in the hospitality industry. The need to provide contactless services to consumers (e.g., robotic food ordering and delivery) further accelerates the adoption of robots. We hope to offer a few key takeaways for managers based on our current knowledge:

  1. To overcome the limited social and emotional capacity of robots, human staff members and service robots can collaborate such that service robots do the mechanical and analytical work; and human staff members deal with emotional tasks.
  2. Adding human-like features in service robots (e.g., face, voice, and movement) may help boost consumer satisfaction in automated service encounters. However, hospitality managers should be more cautious in implementing (extremely) human-like service robots, particularly when they are taking care of tasks with frequent customer interactions.
  3. During Covid-19, Chinese consumers indicate stronger preference for robot-staffed hotels over human-staffed hotels than their American counterparts. In other words, the use of service robots to reduce perceived risk of virus transmission and encourage visits could be more effective in collectivistic cultures (i.e. China).
  4. Transnational hospitality firms should consider what type of service robots to use based on the locations of the hotels to maximize the effectiveness of service robots, given the cultural differences in customer perceptions of service robots.

The Future Of RPA in the Healthcare industry

Today, healthcare organisations manage various repetitive tasks and manual integrations to optimise appointment scheduling, digitize patient documentation and accelerate claims processing. With the increasing needs of new-age patients, organisations must consider the digital transformation route to drive growth and efficiency.

Robotic Process Automation (RPA) has emerged as the new medium to create value throughout the healthcare provider supply chain. The implementation of RPA involves task automation with the integration of business processes across technologies and business functions.

It helps automate the business processes and improve patient care. But are you wondering which tasks need to be optimized with RPA? Patient-facing, managerial and back-office tasks are critical areas for automation. With Robotics Process Automation in the healthcare industry, healthcare providers can offer customized and interactive patient care with increased efficiency and reduced costs. While providers are only beginning to consider automating processes, the potential to transform is enormous.

Why RPA is Important

RPA helps build a robust digital workforce where workers can interact with smart software robots that replicate human actions. It automates both front and back-office operations while eliminating manual processes. RPA in hospitals helps reduce healthcare inefficiencies while offering better care delivery – important for both the industry and the public.

With automation and fast implementation projects enabled by RPA, healthcare providers can avoid costly, long-running digital transformation implementation projects allowing them to channel more healthcare delivery resources.

Implementation of RPA in Healthcare

The healthcare sector is diverse and complex. And it has multiple players spread across the value chain. Today, the industry is evolving even faster than ever. This transformation goes beyond just streamlining and automating processes. There are much larger advantages of RPA implementation that healthcare companies must realize.

Let’s look at how it can impact the industry.

Data Entry and Migration

The healthcare space is rapidly evolving mainly because of technology. Additionally, it is also due to government regulations and mandates. Executives realize the importance of doing away with paper charts to digitize patient information. Both patient and doctor can easily access this data at any time. RPA plays a critical role in transferring this data from legacy systems to newer ones.

Billing and Claims Processing

Billing and claims processing is another critical part of the healthcare sector. A patient that visits a doctor will file a claim. And the remaining amount is payable by the patient. Account receivables help to keep track of all payments. However, this is a time-consuming process and prone to errors. RPA in healthcare claims processing eliminates these problems. It helps in increasing efficiency, time management and reduced human errors.

Patient Scheduling

When patients schedule appointments with doctors, it can also result in occasional cancellations. This can be expensive for healthcare providers. When RPA comes into the picture, it reduces human intervention and increases engagement with patients.

Are you wondering what are the benefits of RPA implementation for your business? Have a look at how it can have an impact on your business.

Benefits of AI-Powered RPA in Healthcare

  • Improves Quality of Care
  • Reduces Compliance Risk
  • Improves Efficiency & Accuracy
  • Better Patient Experience
  • Achieve Interoperability
  • Boost Morale & Productivity

RPA Use Cases in Healthcare

Let’s also look at some of the examples that will provide you valuable insights into how businesses have transformed their processes.

Case 1:

RPA Platform for Efficient Processes

One of Asia’s largest healthcare chains that deals with patient transaction data daily had manual processes in place. They had to streamline claims processing, customer detail recording and reconciliation of data for government schemes. The client wanted to optimize their existing processes to reduce human errors and turnaround time. By identifying areas where RPA could be adopted, the solution resulted in an efficiency of:

  • Claims Processing
  • Data Reconciliation for Central Government Scheme (CGHS)
  • Data Reconciliation for Ex-Servicemen Contributory Health Scheme (ECHS)

As a result, the healthcare chain reduced TAT by 50% while CGHS & ECHS reduced time consumption by ~70%.

Case 2:

Appeal Processing Automation for Healthcare Coverage Administrator

A healthcare administrator had to review cases each time a member wanted to appeal or submit a policy complaint. However, the appeals came through various channels like fax, phone, email, or a web form. Member details had to be manually entered from multiple channels before the appeal process. This was a time-consuming process and often resulted in delays and errors. The company wanted to solve their pain points. The adoption of an RPA solution helped extract data from emails through OCR and Robotics. These machine learning models would route requests into queues. The entire solution resulted in:

  • 85% reduced manual work right from data extraction to policy approval
  • Reduction in routing time from 15 mins to 3 mins

Challenges in Implementing RPA

There are also specific RPA implementation challenges that you will face. These difficulties can surface when you integrate new technology into your current architecture. However, when you partner with an experienced software development company, these temporary hurdles will be eliminated. Here are some of the top challenges we feel could stand in your way.

Employee Resistance and Onboarding

Implementation of new technology requires a massive shift in responsibilities. The change in tasks can make the entire transition stressful for employees. For successful adoption, executives and team leads must ensure clear communication across departments throughout the implementation phase. Expected goals, responsibilities and outcomes need to be clearly addressed across teams. This will drive faster adoption and reduce challenges associated with changes.

Technical Ambiguity

Though RPA offers ease of installation, the technical staff needs to research the answers to satisfy technological and operational issues.

Infrastructure Issues

When implementing RPA, an essential element to consider is the need for an interconnected system that keeps on-premises or cloud infrastructure updated in real-time. A centralized infrastructure team would play a crucial role in expediting the RPA implementation process.

Process & Efficiency Mapping

Process Mapping or Business Process Mapping in RPA helps communicate how a task is accomplished. Human errors are susceptible if the instructions are not standardised, and rules not defined.

As healthcare organizations begin to explore the benefits of RPA, leaders must define the right path to digitization. Robotics Process Automation will help you deliver a better customer experience, expedite processes, drive productivity, and streamline business operations all through a cost-effective approach.

Autom8 is experienced in formulating the right fit RPA solution through our agile project management approach. As a result, we have developed a strong portfolio to help healthcare organizations digitally transform.

45 Unquestionable Advantages and Disadvantages of Robots

Sooner or later robots are going to take over the world.

We’ve all seen Terminator. I’m pretty sure that’s where we’re headed.

Indeed, the industrial robotics market alone is predicted to grow 175% in the next 10 years.

It’s just a matter of time before we create sentient robots that decide humans are superfluous to requirements. When it happens, the best we can hope for is that they keep us as pets.

Only joking.

…Sort of.

Anyway, ominous futures aside, robots aren’t all bad! In fact, there are many advantages of robots to remember too. Tech has come a long way, and life’s already being bettered by robotic support.

Looking to learn about the current advantages and disadvantages of robots? Keep reading for a comprehensive list of robotics advantages and disadvantages.

THE ADVANTAGES OF ROBOTS

Let’s start with the good stuff. Here are all of the primary advantages of robots from which we humans stand to gain.

1. They Increase Production

It’s said that a monkey, tapping away on a typewriter forevermore, would eventually write the full works of Shakespeare.

Humans would do it faster. Go team human.

But robots would smash it out in moments. You just can’t compete with robot productivity. They’re designed for a job, and they don’t stop doing it unless they breakdown or you turn them off.

2. They’re More Accurate Than Humans

I’m a mess in the morning.

With no caffeine in my system my brain literally won’t function. Give me a math problem and I’d probably cry, or slap you, or both. I’d definitely get it wrong.

Robots suffer no such problem. They’re accurate to infinity. You calibrate their systems correctly and they don’t let you down.

3. They Make Fewer Mistakes

All that accuracy means they don’t make mistakes either.

Well, they might, but only if their human controller messed up first.

That’s good news for anyone in business. Robots don’t make mistakes! Humans do. We get flustered, crumble under pressure, forget stuff, or just get lazy, and errors ensue.

The same cannot be said for robots.

4. They Reduce Wastage

Mistakes lead to waste.

You have to throw stuff away and start again. Materials, money, and resources all-around get tossed in the trash (literally or metaphorically) and washed down the drain.

Robots waste very little. That makes them better for the environment and better for business.

5. They’re More Reliable Than Humans

Employees don’t show up for work.

Friends are late for dinner dates.

Family-members forget to babysit your kids.

People have a nasty habit of being unreliable. You don’t know where you stand; there’s always the chance they’ll let you down.

Robots never will. They’re programmed for performance.

6. They Can Work 24/7

Did I mention that they don’t stop?

That productivity is no accident. Robots continue when humans have to take breaks. Robots keep at it when humans get sick, go on holiday, or seek a career change.

Robots can keep working, all day every day if you want them to.

7. They Save Time

Life is one big deadline.

And robotic efficiency and effectiveness mean you’re more likely to meet it.

Again, there are no mistakes and never-ending work. That all helps to save time at every turn.

8. They Don’t Complain

People are annoying.

They bitch and moan even if they have it easy. Someone can be sat on the couch with their feet up, the TV turned on, and drinking a coke, and they’ll still complain about something.

Meanwhile, Rob the robot’s been at their menial job 24/7 for the past month and never said a word.

9. They’re Easy To Understand

People are confusing.

They’re emotional, hormonal, deceitful, and two-faced. They’re impossible to understand sometimes.

At least you know where you’re at with robots. Sure, they might not smile much, but they’re predictable. You know what’s coming.

Of all the robotics advantages and disadvantages, their ability to further human development is one of the most compelling positives.[/caption]

10. They Help Out In Surgery

Imagine playing Operation.

No matter how hard you try, how steady-handed you think you are, you inevitably end up shaking like a leaf in a gale.

Even the best surgeons in the world aren’t faultless.

Robots are being put to good work in the operating theatre to help. They hold things in place, light things up, enter different orifices, and more.

Oh, and the lack of mistakes they make comes in handy here too. People recover quicker from surgery and suffer less too.

11. They Can Do The Dirty Work

Let’s face it, people are lazy.

We don’t like getting our hands dirty- especially these days. We’d rather pay someone else to do it.

Robots don’t care. They’ll happily do whatever they’re tasked with. They do the stuff we don’t want to, and they’ll never complain about it

12. They Can Do The Dangerous Work

Same goes for the dangerous stuff.

Got a bomb to clear? Send the robots in. That means fewer casualties and unnecessary human injuries. Robots are handling risky business more and more in all areas of life.

13. They Can Do The Heavy Lifting

Some humans are incredibly strong.

I mean, look at the Mountain on Game of Thrones. That dude is a beast. I think his forearm is the same width as my thigh.

But he’d still be no match for a robot. They’re made of metal. They’re hard in the truest sense of the word and are designed to do the heavy lifting that average people just aren’t physically capable of doing.

14. They’re Fast Too

Robots get stuff done in a jiffy.

Remember, no breaks and no mistakes. More to the point, though, they’re mechanical.

Robots are designed and manufactured for specific tasks and have the tech required to whizz through them. If time is of the essence, then robots are what’s required.

15. They Can Do The Dull Stuff

Some work is boring AF.

Anyone who’s worked in admin knows that’s a fact.

Endless data entry is not what humans are designed for. It can, however, be precisely the task for which robots are designed. Again, they do the stuff that we don’t want to.

16. They Save Money

All the aforementioned benefits save cash in the long run.

Sure, they’re super expensive to buy upfront. But it’s a definite investment. You’ll be saving money in no time with robots at the helm.

17. They Can’t Say No (Yet)

Robots don’t have the luxury of being able to refuse your requests.

That’s good news for any authoritarians out there intent on having their orders followed. Bag yourself a bot and you’ll never face refusal again.

18. They’re Versatile

You can design a robot for almost any task.

BigDog climbs in the woods, keeps its balance when kicked and when slipping on ice, travels through snow and mud, jogs 5 mph, and climbs some rubble.
 

I don’t even know what task that robot’s completing. But it’s definitely impressive.

Bots can get places we can’t, take more suffering than we can, lift heavier stuff, do everything faster, and so on. They’re the ultimate way to get something, anything, done.

19. They Map Disaster Zones

Disaster zones are scary and dangerous places.

It doesn’t matter whether it’s one of the natural or man-made varieties. It’s best to steer clear of them. There’s now unmanned, flying robots that can be sent into these no-go zones and reveal what’s going on.

20. They’re Useful In Warfare

Warfare is an ugly business.

People die, including innocent ones.

Now, robots can be put to use in this regard too. That’s good news for your ‘team’ as it were. It means fewer soldier casualties and deaths.

Of course, robots can also be used to do the killing. That’s not quite as good if you’re impartial.

21. They Prevent Human Accidents

Accidents are often another form of mistake.

And we’ve already seen that robots are good at avoiding those.

Accidents happen with humans at the helm. In worst-case scenarios people get hurt. Put a robot in charge (or behind the wheel) and they can take the beating instead…or prevent it from happening in the first place.

22. They Create New Jobs For People

People often bemoan robots for stealing jobs.

In truth, though, they provide almost as many as they take. It’s just that the nature of the jobs that change. For instance, jobs in the coding and engineering industries are both important for designed and creating robots.

23. They Represent Human Progress

Imagine being born 100 years ago and being transported into 2020.

You’d have no idea where the hell you were. Mobile phones, electric cars, rocket ships, the internet…it’d blow your bloody mind.

Robots are just one part of that. They represent another aspect of human progress.

24. They’re Central To Future Growth And Development

Likewise, they’re spearheading our journey into the future.

Robots are going to play an ever-increasing role in society. They’ll be at the helm, in one shape or form, of many areas of technological growth and development.

…Until they rise up and kill us all.

25. They Deliver Pizza!

That’s right, we’ve finally done it.

We’ve created a robot that will deliver your pizzas (or any food, for that matter). Here it is in action:

Starship Technologies has partnered with delivery companies across the world to test autonomous, six-wheeled robots. But are city pedestrians ready to share …

Pretty cool, right? Meal delivery anybody?

26. They’ll Milk Your Scorpion For You

Yup.

This one’s a sign of things to come. There’s going to be a robot for everything.

There’s already one that’ll milk your scorpion for you. Yes, you read that correctly. And, no, it isn’t a euphemism. Extracting scorpion venom is dangerous business.

Thankfully, a robot will do it for you.

27. They’re Awesome For Space Research

Robots can go to space in a way that humans can’t.

They’re on Mars. They’re orbiting the planets. They’re being sent further and further into space.

Without them, our understanding of the universe and our place within it would be hugely reduced. Robots are simply a fundamental part of space exploration.

From the production of the spacecraft and technology inside them, to the actual exploration itself, robots have a key role all-round.

28. They’re Perfect For Research In General

The use of robots for research doesn’t stop at space exploration.

Heck, they’re used in almost every field to help in this regard. By virtue of their resilience and strength, they can go just about anywhere- to the depths of the ocean, into extreme heat or cold, and so on.

That makes them ideal for finding things out about things we would otherwise have no way of accessing.

29. They’re Really Cool

And, at the end of the day, robots are downright cool.

That’s one advantage of robots that’s hard to deny.

Onto the downsides of robots. Here are the robotics disadvantages that aren’t quite as enjoyable.

1. They Lead Humans To Lose Their Jobs

Robots have a nasty habit of taking peoples’ jobs.

I mean, in a capitalist system business owners have to do what it takes to maximize profits. And the brutal efficiency of robots makes them perfect for the task.

Humans just can’t compete with a robot that can work 24/7 without making any mistakes. That fact can force people out of jobs they’ve done their entire lives.

2. They Need Constant Power

Robots need oodles of electricity to run.

That makes them expensive to run (more on this later) and potentially damaging to the environment.

Unless we shift over to greener sources of energy, the growing demand for robots in society could lead to additional issues with global warming and greenhouse gas emissions.

3. They’re Restricted To Their Programming

Robots can’t think for themselves (yet).

They rely on clever humans to program them for specific tasks. And, though artificial intelligence and machine learning are coming on fast, this is a limiting factor in what Robots can do.

They can’t magic themselves up new capabilities at the drop of a hat. They can’t think outside the box, mould themselves to novel needs, or do anything other than the task for which they’re programmed.

4. The Perform Relatively Few Tasks

In a similar way, robots are only suited, as of now, for specific roles and responsibilities.

They come into their own in industry, research, medical practices, and the military. Outside of those domains, though, they have minimal practical usage.

Our day to day lives are slowly becoming more robot-centric. For now, though, there’s a way to go before we start putting robots to work around the house at scale.

As realistic as they might become, a major disadvantage of robotics is their inability to feel, empathize, and interact as humans do. It’s another important factor on this list of pros and cons of robots.
 

5. They Have No Emotions

Robots don’t feel anything either.

They’re machines- clever chunks of metal with gears and gizmos keeping them ‘alive’. But they could never feel any emotion that would allow them to empathise with, or relate to, what we’re going through.

You could never sit down and have a heart to heart with a robot.

Sure, if the programming develops enough, then they might be able to say the right things, respond to particular cues, and react appropriately in a given situation.

But it wouldn’t be real! They wouldn’t actually be feeling anything beneath the surface.

6. They Impacts Human Interaction

Human interaction will suffer as robots become an increasing part of life.

Already, the rise of mobile phones has started this slippery slope. Just look around you in any public space and you see a mass of people staring at their screens.

We’re more connected via the internet than ever before, but more isolated, lonely, and depressed too. We risk forgetting what it means to have an actual, real-life, human interaction.

There’s every reason to believe that this is going to worsen as robots get an ever-greater role to play in daily life.

7. They Require Expertise To Set Them Up

Ask me to program a robot and I’d have no idea where to start.

Literally zilch.

In the future, it might become a common skill. But, for now, programming and setting up robots/computers for any given task remains something that requires particular expertise.

That puts the power into the hands of a limited number of skilled people around the world.

8. They’re Expensive To Install And Run

Business owners looking to install robots in their factories/operations face significant upfront costs.

After all, robots aren’t cheap- especially when they’re high-tech, top of the line and needed for a specific task. The can put extreme financial pressure on an organisation.

Thanks to the electricity and manpower required to keep robots in working order, the running costs involved are high as well.

You have to hope that that the increases output justifies the initial investment.

9. They Mean Staff Need Retraining

The shift from manpower to robot-power doesn’t always cull jobs for employees.

Sometimes it just requires a shift in responsibilities to operate the robots that have been brought in. For that to happen, though, employees will need to undergo significant retraining and upskilling.

10. They’ll Cause Possible Class Divides

Expensive products/services are only available to people who can afford them.

Until robots become mass-produced, it’s unlikely that everyday people will be able to buy them and reap the rewards they might offer. They’ll be the reserve of the wealthiest people in society, who’ll get another head start on the working class.

If robots can be used to extend peoples’ wealth, then the divide between rich and poor will only increase.

11. They Suffer Expensive Faults And Repairs

Another financial issue involved with robots is to do with any faults and problems that occur.

Everything from the materials involved to the engineers required to fix them can be expensive. Throw in the cost of downtime and you’re looking at significant sums of money.

That’s bad news for business owners trying to recoup the cost of investment.

12. They Cause Cybersecurity Issues

Robots open the door to a range of cybersecurity problems too.

Even today, the rise of computers leaves many organisations and individuals open to attack. Hacks, ransomware, and identity theft are all potential hazards.

Now, fast forward a few decades to a time when robots are an everyday part of life.

They might be helping out around the house, caring for peoples’ wellbeing, and running any number of key tasks. Imagine if somebody hacked their system and programmed them to ‘misbehave’.

The potential repercussions could be extreme.  

13. They Pose Potential Physical Danger From Malfunctions

It isn’t uncommon for humans to work in close proximity with robots.

The last thing you want is for a malfunction to cause the robot to do something dangerous.

They’re big heavy hunks of metal that pack immense power. It wouldn’t take much for a broken robot to do serious damage to the lowly human stood next to it.

Of all potential robots disadvantages, one of the most likely is that they make humans overly reliant on them!

14. They Might Make Humans Overreliant On Robotic Help

Think about how much you use your phone.

There’s a good chance it’s the first thing you check in the morning and the last thing you see at night. Your smartphone may never leave your pocket or be far from your side.

You use it for everything from fact-finding and navigation to photography and contacting loved ones.

Imagine having to go a day without it! Most people would feel lost and unable to go about their day as normal.

We can expect the same thing to happen with robots.

As they become more widely-available, used, and accepted in society, we’ll become ever more reliant on them. It’ll be like the film Wall-e, where humans become overweight and entirely dependent on robots for support.

15. They May Reduce Human Capabilities

We’ve already started to take our phones for granted.

But imagine if the internet was suddenly turned off and we had to revert to a life without the World Wide Web. It would change absolutely everything!

When was the last time you wrote a letter? Or read an actual map? When was the last time you used the Yellow Pages? What about keeping track of your finances with a pen and paper? How about going to a restaurant without reading online reviews? When was the last time you went to the library to get a book?

The list of changes that would come about goes on and on and on.

Modern technology has revolutionised life. But it also detracts from other parts of it. We’re less capable than we once were- less resilient, patient, and knowledgeable, to name just a few.

Imagine what would happen if we had robots doing everything for us! We’d forget what it meant to be human.

16. They Might Take Over The World!

Then, of course, there’s the big one:

The danger of robots taking over the world and killing off all the humans.

Needless to say, it’s a terrifying prospect, made even worse by how feasible this eventuality is! Computers are getting more intelligent by the day. Sooner or later they’ll develop a level on sentience that enables them to make decisions for themselves.

And then? Terminator.

We all know it ends with the terminator.

Hopefully, the decision-makers of the world have enough sense to leave the lid on this enormous can of worms. Take it off and we’re sure to enjoy a world of trouble.  

The Future of Delivery Robots

Delivery robots – just a few years ago, the stuff of pure science fiction – are now very much a reality and quickly becoming a part of everyday life for many of us. In fact, I will usually come across five or six when I go for an evening jog in my hometown of Milton Keynes, England!

These particular ones belong to Starship, a company that deployed its first autonomous delivery bots just three years ago and now operates a fleet of over a thousand, in several locations in the UK, USA, and very soon in mainland Europe too.

I spoke to their CEO, Alastair Westgarth, who told me that his robots had traveled a total of 3.6 million kilometers to make 2 million deliveries. Powered by machine learning algorithms, they are constantly getting smarter, meaning they become more efficient as well as safer.

Of these journeys, the vast majority are completed fully autonomously; however, human operators are always ready to step in when needed. Westgarth told me, “Safety is always our number one priority, so if a robot encounters something unusual, it will stop and send an alert to our remote operators.

“Most of the time, they will say it’s okay, proceed – and release the robot. That’s 90% of the interactions … say there’s a new crossing that’s highly complex. But 99% of the time, they are driving completely autonomously.”

The robots are packed with sensors, including cameras with machine vision, radar, and ultrasonic sensors that detect solid objects like curbs and walls. They cross 80,000 roads every day, and initially, these were all carried out by human operators. However, as the robots learned more about their environments, today almost every one is carried out autonomously.

“We’ve driven 3.6 million kilometres so that’s a significant amount of ground we’ve covered, and we do it 24/7, in the dark, in the snow, in heavy rain … when we first encountered snow it was something the robots weren’t familiar with, it produced different images from the cameras, and the sensors reacted differently, so we had to train our systems to deal with that environment. They are constantly learning … our autonomy today is orders of magnitude bigger.”

When we talk about robots, one topic we can’t afford to ignore is the potential impact on human jobs. Delivery robots clearly pose a threat to human employment, and while a common reaction to this is to suggest that humans could be doing better things with their brains and bodies than the relatively menial task of making deliveries, nevertheless these are jobs that allow people to earn a living and support families.

Westgarth says that he is confident that enterprises like Starship will make more job openings available to human beings than it will take away.

“We believe in our heart of hearts that as we bring in more technology that makes the experience more efficient and more valuable … that we add to the employment base. We’re migrating employment, and … at the end of the day, we hope that the number of jobs we create offsets the number of jobs that may be lost by autonomous delivery. If we look at history, as efficiency and autonomy come in, the economy grows, and more jobs are created – an obvious example is that there are no stagecoach drivers now, but there are car drivers.

“At the end of the day, there will be more people taking care of our robots, more people providing services to the merchants we deliver for, people programming our software, developing our apps on phones and tablets. So employment will change, but we believe it will go up,” Westgarth says.

Starship’s robots operate at what is known as the “last mile” of the delivery process – in reality, the last one to three miles. This involves delivering goods from supermarkets, grocery stores, takeaway food venues, and restaurants. Other elements of the delivery and logistics industry are concerned with longer distance domestic and international delivery, and here the impact of automation will be felt soon too – with autonomous shipping, delivery vans, and airborne drones all on the horizon. Of course, I took the opportunity to ask Westgarth where he sees Starship fitting into this and how society will adapt to the broader challenges of autonomous delivery, going forward.

“We have no intention of delivering Sprinter van levels … over ten or twenty kilometers”, he tells me. “There’s a need for that and ways to provide it, and today all of that is still manual. But probably, it will become more autonomous in the future. [Delivery is] multi-modal … its very difficult to scale these things economically with purely human-driven options … so there’re challenges there. [But] it’s much easier to scale the last-mile delivery, with an autonomous approach.

“We’re trying to deliver goods in as efficient and effective a manner – where we’re adding to the value chain instead of taking away. I think it’s a very bright future, we’ll see autonomous vehicles delivering on the road, we’ll see more on the sidewalk, and we’ll see other options like drones as well. We want to be part of that future.”

You can watch my interview with Alastair Westgarth, CEO of Starship, in full here, where we also cover issues including skills and qualities that workers will need to thrive in an autonomous future.

What does Ed Sheeran have in common with Robotic Process Automation?

Bit of a weird question, to be sure but bear with me. If you’ve ever been to an Ed Sheeran concert, you’ll see how he creates the music accompanying a song by recording hooks with his acoustic guitar and a loop pedal. The hooks combine and then playback automatically throughout the song, while Ed of course does what he does best, strumming the melody and regaling the crowd with dulcet tones.

What Ed has done with this technique is create a scalable workforce, so he doesn’t need a backing band. In simple terms, this is precisely what Robotic Process Automation (RPA) does – except, of course, for elements of your business processes.

RPA delivers a scalable workforce by helping with a range of activities, often dull and repetitive, helping people get more done at work. Done well, RPA means delivering a seamless experience for customers, while making workers look like superstars. Perfect, as Ed might observe. Check out the video to see his technique in action.

A good question (and a frequent one) is, well, where do you start? Look at areas of the business with good, stable processes with high handling and rules-based logic, but which demand manual oversight or action. You’ll need access to data in a stable, repeatable format from reliable systems. And the involvement of the people who do that manual work is crucial. As I always say, give me the 5th best person, and I will give you the 5th best bot.

Now, the interesting thing about introducing RPA in practice is that it often doesn’t have any immediate set goals. There might be a few obvious potential candidates for automation using software robots, but the reality is that it can be difficult to pinpoint precisely which, and where, are best suited.

The answer to this challenge is starting with sound business analysis taking a detailed look at your processes. After all, it is often the case that a process that seems simple, on the face of it, actually isn’t.

An approach I’ve seen in action almost reflects that famously perplexing, yet somehow insightful comment made by then-Secretary of State for Defence Donald Rumsfeld: There are known knowns; there are things we know we know. We also know there are known unknowns; that is to say, we know there are some things we do not know. But there are also unknown unknowns — there are things we do not know we don’t know.”

Yes, I know. Almost sounds like Ed repeating hooks on his loop pedal, yet it makes some sort of sense.

Applied to RPA in a business, this meant starting with internal processes where you know a difference can be made (or you think so). As you tackle those ‘known knowns’ – things which appear as obvious candidates for RPA – you’ll soon enough bump into the known unknowns, things which didn’t seem like they could benefit from the application of robotics, but with some unravelling, might just.

And in due course, the focus tends to move on from internal to external processes. These are the unknown unknowns; you start without any idea of where or how RPA can make a difference, yet with the right focus and a growing body of proven automation, the world is your oyster.

Aside from being something of a mind-bender or mental tongue twister Christopher Nolan would be proud of, this kind of process is exactly how I’ve worked with the application of RPA in the real world. It is often exploratory, experimental, and downright exciting. Because RPA can do a lot more than what immediately meets the eye, particularly when led and informed by sound business analysis.

Finally, RPA sounds terribly technical and almost as if it should be the plaything of the IT folks. Nothing could be further from the truth. In fact, RPA often fails when even the best IT people are in charge. The reason is that IT people are at understanding the technology, but it is the processes which are the engine room. Those who own the processes understand how they actually work, and it is they who must take charge of the RPA.

Creating a scalable workforce means getting more done with less. It releases smart people from dull tasks. It takes cost out of the business. And it leaves you with more time for that Ed Sheeran concert, too.

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