The Downfall to Automation

We’ve talked before about how automation can be your business’ best friend. It’s easy, efficient, and it helps ensure nothing slips through the cracks. On the flip side, automation is not a substitute for human connection. While there are many tasks that it just makes sense to automate, there are many that should remain manual, fulfilled by the necessary person on your team. There can actually be disadvantages to over-automation, which is why maintaining a balance is vital in order to optimize productivity in the workplace!

There are times when automation is not the best or right choice. When it comes to onboarding clients, employees, vendors - never resort to automation! Establishing a positive rapport will help build strong work relationships that will remain intact for years to come. The same goes for responding to clients, customers, vendors, and prospects who reach out for assistance. Avoid sending generalized responses or automated emails. People will notice when you take the time to explain, answer, and address their questions and concerns - and this will in turn help establish an even stronger bond for your working relationship. 

Any tasks that are constantly changing, you should avoid automating these, as well. When there is a lack of consistency in a task, automation is likely to cause more errors than not. Anything subject to fluctuation should not be left to automation. Although it’s vital for human eyes to check for accuracy and correct any errors, this will become incredibly time consuming if you constantly have to fix mistakes. 

While it’s fair to suggest that automation can create worker displacement, it’s also important for humans to review those tasks that are automated for accuracy. In order for automation to run smoothly, it needs to be set-up correctly. This requires human labor, as well.

Keep in mind that while automation helps to ensure certain tasks are completed, the human factor can never be replaced!