Automated Material Handling System To Ensure Profit For Smes
Over the years industrial operations have become more sophisticated and a considerable
growth has been witnessed in terms of production volumes and product ranges in various sectors. These major changes have made it essential for SMEs to install automated material handling systems, which ensure prompt delivery of goods and services.Automated handling system involves the use of computers for moving and positioning of goods in a factory within a short span of time, thereby helping a company to achieve maximum productivity and efficiency. However, because of huge costs involved in installations of the system, the technology is yet to be adopted by SMEs.
"For installation of automated handling system along-term investment plan is required. Since most of the SMEs suffer from credit crunch, they refrain from such long-term investment plans," says Raman Chanana, proprietor of Sangeeta Enterprises, a mid-sized manufacturer of handcrafted products in Faridabad, Haryana.
Benefits
Automated handling system saves significant amount of time as it helps in rapid movement of goods from the point of origin to the destination. Since most of the operations are controlled by computer, it is not much labour intensive, thereby cutting down direct costs. Though initial installation may require some investment, the system will benefit SMEs in the long run. In this context, Rajbir Singh, proprietor of Rohan Infotech, a mid-sized manufacturer of computer cables in Gurgaon, Haryana says, One of the major advantages of the system is that since it is computerised, it can run on a 24-hour basis."
Considering the complications involved in material handling operations, experts believe that SMEs need to understand the long-term benefits of the automated handling system and take necessary steps for its implementation accordingly.
by: David Parks