3 Barriers to Automation

– and How to Overcome Them

Time, skills and technology are the biggest barriers to automation in Danish manufacturing companies. The Danish Technological Institute shares its experiences and practical advice.
Half Double Automation

Although robots and automation can generate significant growth, only around 30 per cent of production processes in Danish manufacturing companies are automated. The potential is huge – but many companies hesitate to take the next step.

According to the Danish Technological Institute, three barriers often stand in the way: lack of time, lack of skills, and lack of technology. Overcoming these challenges is not easy, but it is necessary to remain competitive. As Søren Peter Johansen, Technical Manager at the Institute, puts it:

‘Saying no to a production robot is like saying no to getting round tyres on your car. You might be able to get by for a while with square wheels, but in the long run you will be overtaken.’

Why many hesitate – and how to move ahead

Time

Prioritise automation by highlighting the benefits, starting small and using preliminary projects to create momentum.

Skills

Train employees, hire new profiles or share resources – and remember that management must also have insight in order to drive the projects forward.

Technology

Seek knowledge and inspiration, optimise processes and start small. Often, the solutions already exist – you just need to know where to look.

 

Dig deeper into these three challenges in the article series “Good advice: How to get started with robots” at the Danish Technological Institute.

From insight to action

Many companies recognise the potential of automation but struggle with time, skills, or technology. Fast Track to Automation is designed to address these barriers by combining specialist know-how with a proven project management approach. This way, companies don’t just select the right technology – they also succeed in implementing it and making it stick.

The programme is aimed at medium-sized manufacturing companies and offers:

  • A tailor-made plan for automation in their company
  • Strengthened project management skills to drive change
  • Methods to ensure sustainable results
     
Half Double Automation

From Automation Strategy to Measurable Results Fast Track to Automation

Fast Track to Automationis a targeted leadership programme that combines technical knowledge of automation with proven methods for implementation and change management. Designed for medium-sized manufacturing companies.

Read more