Enablers and Barriers for Introduction of Robotics as an AMT in the Indian Industries (Case of SME's)

Abstract

ABSTRACT In today‟s economic environment, enterprises that solely rely on traditional technologies cannot meet dynamic customer demands. Several studies confirm that a nation‟s growth is dictated, to a large extent, by the performance of small businesses. However, the reality is that SMEs are constantly struggling to survive and maintain their schedule of activities. This is evident in the track record of the majority of SMEs in the developing countries: they have been unable to reap the benefits of globalization. This unfortunate predicament may be attributed to the fact that many developing countries face major challenges in suitably developing and using modern technologies. Hence, Introduction of Robotics as an Advanced Manufacturing Technology (AMT) represents an opportunity for manufacturing firms to improve their competitiveness in order to meet the customer‟s demands and be the winners in the competitive market This paper involves review of literature of the enablers and the barriers on introduction of Robotics as an Advanced Manufacturing Technology (AMT) and the identification of key issues and strategic risks involved in this.