DAC 2021_12

n COMMENT SOLVING THE PRODUCTIVITY CONUNDRUM As we (hopefully) work our way out of the worst effects of the pandemic, attention is turning back to the economy in general, and manufacturing in particular, which is responsible for more than half of the UK’s exports. What is the best way to proceed from here and what role can automation play is helping to build back the manufacturing sector and improve on our traditionally poor levels of productivity? It is against this background that the major new report from the Manufacturing Technology Centre (MTC) and Loughborough University’s Industrial Policy Research Centre (IPRC) makes fascinating reading. As we report in our News section (page 6), this document looks at the future of automation and robotics in the UK from several different perspectives and contains contributions from experts in a variety of disciplines including specialists from different sectors of industry, trade bodies, equipment suppliers, the banking sector, academic institutions, trades unions – and even the media! Together, they paint a picture of a sector whose full potential has yet to be realised. It is building on a glorious industrial past but has yet to grasp the full benefits of the latest automation and robotics technologies. It may be a bit of a stereotype, but too many UK manufacturers pride themselves on their ability to“sweat”their existing assets rather than embracing the latest technologies. So we find the UK lagging badly behind most of its rivals in terms of industrial productivity. Covid and Brexit have exacerbated the situation, making the engineering skills shortages even more acute. The 84-page report argues that there is a need for fundamental changes in attitude towards automation and robotics, addressing the fear of change, and being bolder in terms of business culture and strategy. It laments that the lack of understanding about the impact of these technologies, which results in negative public perceptions, and hesitancy to adopt the technologies. The report adds that support will be necessary to help introduce the new technologies – particularly for SMEs – to ensure that they are applied effectively and implemented in the most efficient way. It points out that most of the required technologies are already available, avoiding the need to develop and adopt“breakthrough” technologies.“Investment in training and engaging interest must be a high priority,”it declares. The report breaks down its recommendations into four categories: skills and education; awareness; finance; and support. There isn’t space here to go into the full details, but you can view and download the report at https://online.flippingbook.com/view/292843863 Over the years, there has been no shortage of studies and analyses of the UK manufacturing sector and how to solve its problems. But this new document feels different, giving a more rounded assessment of the sector’s current status, and how it could proceed in the future. It is well worth a read. Tony Sacks, Editor M RKBENC FRO OW OM CUST HES F mm es s n some models C t t d f 40 40 3 .online s ic-motor sales@electr 02476 980833 W ALL US NO C • ons ruc e rom mm x mm x steel box section • 18mm thick WPB best plywood shelv • Available in a wide selection of colour • Personalised with your company logo o • Available in bespoke sizes • Non-marking rubber swivel caster