3 ways to develop your skills to work alongside robots
With the rise of e-commerce and the continuous development of technology, warehouses are increasingly embracing technological advancements to enhance logistical operations and expedite product delivery.
The AI Revolution in Warehousing
The AI revolution has introduced numerous autonomous tools such as robots, voice direction headsets, scanners, drones, and self-driving vehicles. These tools boost productivity and accuracy, especially when working alongside human counterparts.
While some may fear a decline in work opportunities, we see this as a positive opportunity for humans and robots to collaborate, placing logistics and warehousing at the forefront of technological advances and workplace development.
Human technology collaboration
Most technology is designed to assist humans, making our lives easier and reducing workloads. A prime example is the Freight 500 from Fetch Robotics, a transportation robot designed to carry up to 1,100 lbs around warehouses. These robots follow warehouse workers, assisting with heavy load carrying duties.
AI technology isn't limited to robots and drones. In some cases, technology works behind the scenes, analyzing and optimizing workloads before tasks even begin. Systems using Augmented Reality (AR) technology for optimized picking and warehouse planning can significantly improve operations. Reports show that AR systems can improve picking accuracy by 40%.
The Benefits of AI in Warehousing
From a human perspective, technology can alleviate frustrations such as finding missing items due to recording errors or ensuring the most efficient picking routes. This symbiosis of humans and technology enhances productivity and reduces unnecessary effort.
Countries that have already implemented AI technology in their supply chain logistics demonstrate that AI is the future of warehousing. The question isn't "Are robots taking our jobs?" but "How can I develop my skills to work alongside technology?
3 ways to upskill for a tech-enhanced warehouse
1. Learn and Teach
For AI technology to work, it must learn from humans. Warehouse employees with extensive knowledge can help teach and refine AI systems, ensuring they are robust and adaptable.
2. Repair and Maintain
Even robots need supervision. Team leaders, shift supervisors, and warehouse managers must interpret real-time analytics, make decisions, and distribute the workforce accordingly. Aim for management roles to maximize employability and career longevity.Technology can fail, often at inconvenient times. Humans will always have the upper hand in repairing and maintaining robots. Upskill in this area through courses like those provided by NobleProg
3. Take Control
Even robots need to report to someone, what else are they to do with all of the information they are processing? It is the role of a team leader, shift supervisor and warehouse manager to take the real time analytics on board, make the right decisions and distribute the workforce accordingly. Work your way up the warehouse career ladder and set your sites on a management role to maximise your employability and career longevity.
If you would like to seek some further support and guidance regarding AI in the workplace, contact your local Blue Arrow branch.
