3 common automation myths holding manufacturers back

Author:
Corinna Kieft
Marketing Coordinator Co-op

Automation is becoming more capable and accessible, but common automation myths still shape how manufacturers think about adopting it. Some leaders worry machines will replace people. Others see the business case only in terms of labour savings or assume waiting for technology to mature is the safer choice.

These assumptions can create hesitation before manufacturers explore the problems automation could help solve. In Season 1 of People B4 Machines, three industry experts challenge these myths and offer a more practical view of automation—how it changes work, creates value beyond cost reduction, and helps organizations learn what works before making larger investments.

Key takeaways

Myth 1: Automation replaces people

The fear that automation will replace people often treats jobs and tasks as the same thing. In practice, automation is frequently used to take on specific tasks that are repetitive, physically demanding, or hazardous—not to eliminate the need for human contribution.

In Episode 7 of People B4 Machines, Ujjwal Kumar, former President of Teradyne Robotics, challenges the idea that people and machines are competing for the same role.

“The narrative that robots replace humans is outdated and inaccurate,” Kumar said. “Robots are designed to augment human capabilities, not replace them.”

On the factory floor, robots are well suited for work that involves repetitive motion, heavy lifting, or difficult ergonomic conditions. People remain essential for judgment, problem-solving, supervision, and continuous improvement.

Kumar also connects automation with safety and job quality. When machines take on hazardous or physically demanding work, employees can focus on responsibilities that require human experience and decision-making.

“Cobots take on hazardous, repetitive, and physically demanding tasks, allowing humans to focus on management and decision-making work,” he explained.

The reality is not that automation removes people from manufacturing. It changes how work is divided between people and machines, creating an opportunity to design safer and more sustainable roles.

Myth 2: Automation is only about cost savings

Cost savings and return on investment are important considerations, but they represent only part of automation’s potential value.

Depending on the application, manufacturing automation can improve safety, quality, consistency, capacity, and throughput. It can also reduce the burden of repetitive work and create opportunities for people to develop new technical skills.

In Episode 9, Jake Hall, known as the Manufacturing Millennial, discusses how previous waves of automation changed work rather than bringing work to an end.

“Automation’s creating new technologies,” Hall said. “Companies are trying to be more competitive, and they need the skill sets to do that.”

This shift is particularly relevant as manufacturers compete for skilled employees. Many difficult-to-fill positions involve work that is physically demanding, repetitive, or performed in undesirable environments. Automating those tasks can create new responsibilities in areas such as programming, maintenance, systems integration, and data analysis.

Hall argues that technology also affects whether younger employees see a future for themselves in manufacturing.

“The issue is not getting younger generations to come to work for you,” he explained. “The issue is getting them to stay.”

Viewed this way, the business case for automation extends beyond reducing labour costs. Its value can also appear in safer work, more consistent production, improved capacity, and a work environment that better supports employee development and retention.

Myth 3: It’s too early to automate

Automation technology continues to evolve, so waiting can appear to be a cautious choice. Some manufacturers assume they can adopt later, once the technology is more mature, and catch up quickly.

But waiting also delays the learning required to apply new technology effectively.

In Episode 10, Adam Dorr, Director of Research at RethinkX, emphasizes the value of experimentation over waiting for a perfect solution.

“Find an opportunity. Begin testing and utilizing these technologies early and figuring out how your company is going to respond.”

This perspective reframes the risk of waiting. The concern is not simply that competitors may purchase new technology first. By experimenting earlier, they also begin developing internal knowledge about applications, workforce needs, processes, and integration.

Hands-on experience allows organizations to understand how their people and operations respond before they attempt a broader transformation. It also reveals where a technology creates meaningful value—and where it does not.

As automation advances, organizations will rarely have complete certainty about the next technology or the perfect time to invest. Learning, adaptability, and a willingness to test practical applications can be more valuable than waiting for every answer.

Moving beyond automation myths

Automation is not a single answer to every manufacturing challenge, and every organization will approach it differently. But decisions based on outdated assumptions can prevent manufacturers from understanding where the technology could create value.

The perspectives shared throughout Season 1 of People B4 Machines offer a more complete view. Automation can change work without removing the need for people. Its value can extend well beyond cost reduction. And organizations do not need to have every answer before they begin learning.

Moving past these common automation myths allows manufacturers to have a more useful conversation  grounded in the work that needs to be improved, the people involved, and the business outcomes they are trying to achieve.

Explore the possibilities

Not sure where automation could create the most value in your operations? Connect with Eclipse Automation to explore opportunities based on your production needs, workforce, and long-term goals.