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Government Contractors, Is It Time To Automate?
Automation of jobs has been happening for a long time already. Intelligent machines have made their presence felt in many parts all over the world which is why a debate is ongoing on whether prevailing wage contractors should switch from manual and entirely rely on machines. The advantages and disadvantages of automating jobs are discussed below.
Advantages of Automating Jobs for Government Contractors
1. Automating jobs improves productivity
Machines are very precise and fast in their tasks. They can also finish a huge amount of work in just one go unlike their prevailing wage workers counterpart.
2. Automating jobs keeps prevailing wage workers away from risky tasks
Machines can function in dangerous environments where prevailing wage workers cannot work or where it is hazardous for their health. With automation, the frequency of workplace mishaps and accidents will drastically decrease.
3. Government contractors will be able to save more
Using automating machines will shift the use of funds from paying salaries, medical claims and accident insurance to maintenance of the machines which is cheaper.
Disadvantages of automating jobs by government contractors
1. Machines can’t do non-repetitive or complicated tasks
Machines are programmed, which means that they don’t have a mind of their own. They can’t perform decision making that is not included in their program as opposed to prevailing wage workers.
2. Machines need regular maintenance
Government contractors who resort to automation should still hire skilled prevailing wage workers that can check and keep the machines in good working order. Not doing so will lead to reduced productivity or the quality of the output will be compromised.
3. Initial investment for automating jobs is quite high
The cost of automating jobs is much higher than the unit cost of the product. The cost of production may not be practical in terms of labor and materials. It can be a hindrance for customized production lines wherein product handling and tooling must be developed first.
Weigh the Pros and Cons of Automating Jobs. Consult with ARCHER JORDAN.
Prevailing wage workers don’t need to fear for their jobs anymore since government contractors are set to continue hiring human talent even if jobs are now being automated. However, the maintenance of machines will also require money and may affect the benefits that are being enjoyed by the workers.
Consult a professional to make sure that they still get the right amount of benefits despite the added expenses for the company. Call us now at ARCHER JORDAN!
