In the IDC FutureScape: Worldwide Manufacturing Supply Chain 2015 Predictions, IDC Manufacturing Insights predicts that by 2017, "80 percent of manufacturers will be re-evaluating the applicability of robotics and logistics automation technology within their warehousing networks". To understand the possibilities and application of robotics in the supply chain, there are a few key areas that are helping to drive an increase in robotic installations, not least of which are technological advancements.

Along with other factors, they are helping to drive growth in the acceptance and increased implementations of robotics in the manufacturing supply chain. With the technology element, it should be clear, we continue to generate innovative ways of doing things, which results in a continuous state of change. This effect is creating new applications of robotics and increasing the viability and performance of robotics within existing applications. What may not be quite clear, is that robotics technology improvement applies not just to the mechanical (robot) component, but also the underlying software and systems required to operate robotics. Furthermore, the connected nature of robotics lends it to enhancement through big data and analytics. As robotics solutions continue to evolve, the applicability and acceptance of robotics will continue to increase as well.

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