What is an automation consultant?
An automation consultant evaluates manufacturing processes and recommends technology, workflows, and implementation plans that improve productivity, quality, safety, or cost control. The work commonly includes process observation, cycle-time analysis, equipment review, automation concept development, ROI assessment, and project scoping. A consultant helps decision-makers determine whether automation is viable and what system, staffing, timeline, and capital requirements are needed before deployment.
What does an industrial automation feasibility study include?
An industrial automation feasibility study examines the current process, product mix, labor content, cycle times, quality requirements, available floor space, existing equipment, and operational constraints. It identifies suitable automation opportunities and develops a preliminary system concept. The study should also address expected throughput, integration risks, implementation timing, capital needs, and anticipated return so leaders can compare options using meaningful production and financial criteria.
How do you calculate ROI for a robotic automation project?
Robotic automation ROI compares the project’s total cost with measurable operational gains over time. Inputs typically include equipment, tooling, controls, installation, commissioning, training, maintenance, labor redeployment, cycle-time improvement, scrap reduction, uptime, and anticipated production volume. GLOBAL evaluates these factors alongside process-specific risks and capacity goals, helping manufacturers build a realistic business case rather than relying on labor savings alone.
When is a manufacturing process ready for automation?
A process is often ready for automation when it is repetitive, physically demanding, hazardous, quality-sensitive, or creating a capacity bottleneck. Stable part presentation, predictable cycle requirements, and sufficient production volume strengthen the case, but variable operations may also be automated with machine vision and adaptive guidance. A feasibility assessment determines whether the process, equipment, and facility conditions support a reliable solution.
Can GLOBAL consult on an existing production line?
Yes. GLOBAL supports manufacturing line modernization for new product launches, model-year changeovers, capacity expansions, and automation improvements. Engineers can assess opportunities to retrofit robots, integrate equipment, convert manual operations, optimize cells, and improve controls. The goal is to develop a practical upgrade path that improves performance while managing downtime, protecting existing investments, and prioritizing capital where it delivers the greatest operational value.
What automation applications can GLOBAL evaluate?
GLOBAL evaluates a broad range of robotic applications, including machine tending, material handling, assembly, welding, dispensing and sealing, painting and coating, inspection, and vision-guided operations. Recommendations are based on the part geometry, process variation, quality requirements, cycle times, safety considerations, and available floor space. The team can also assess how connected controls, SCADA, IoT data, and traceability fit into the broader solution.
How long does an automation consulting engagement take?
The duration depends on the number of processes under review, available production data, site access, and the depth of concept development required. A focused assessment can establish the key opportunities and constraints quickly, while a detailed project definition may include simulation, layout work, controls considerations, and ROI modeling. GLOBAL aligns the consulting scope to the decisions your team needs to make and the level of confidence required.
Can GLOBAL provide engineers after the automation system is planned?
Yes. GLOBAL combines robotic systems integration with technical staffing, allowing manufacturers to access the people needed alongside the automation plan. Available talent includes controls engineers, PLC programmers, robotics technicians, electrical designers, project managers, commissioning engineers, mechanical designers, installation engineers, and robot programmers. Engagement options include contract, contract-to-hire, and permanent direct placement to support project delivery and ongoing operations.