Automation can improve the efficiency, safety, accuracy and speed of a process, but it also requires careful planning. There are many factors to consider and it can be difficult to know when a process should be automated. If you are wondering about automating a process at your processing plant, manufacturing plant, or another facility, consider the following. How to Know When a Process Should be Automated 1. Current Process Time vs. Projected Process Time Time is one of the most important factors to consider when deciding whether a process should be automated or not. A machine will perform most simple and repetitive processes faster than a person can. However, it is not only the individual process itself that should be considered, but the surrounding processes as well. 2. Accuracy Requirements Accuracy is another important factor to consider when a process should be automated. If machines are installed, maintained and programmed correctly, they will perform the same task, the same way,...