Automation projects are often won or lost long before any robots are deployed, with workforce buy-in emerging as a critical factor in long-term success, says Greg Walls, vice president of revenue at Paccurate.

Companies frequently underestimate the importance of change management in the early stages of implementation, even when the underlying technology performs as intended. “Humans are still the critical piece that connects the robots and automation to the actual successful outcome,” Walls explains.

To build that connection, some organizations are taking unconventional approaches, like introducing employees to automation concepts through games, incentives or even cardboard cutouts of robots to make the technology feel more approachable. The goal is to foster familiarity and enthusiasm before systems go live, which can help reduce resistance once operations actually begin in earnest.

Walls emphasized that companies should also look externally for guidance, by conducting reference calls with peers that have successfully deployed automation to gain better insights into what actually works in practice. Internally, lining up incentives with automation goals and tailoring engagement strategies to workforce preferences can further strengthen adoption.

Sustaining returns after deployment requires ongoing effort. Leading companies establish consistent feedback loops with frontline workers to identify issues early as business conditions shift. Documenting change-management strategies and maintaining institutional knowledge can also help ensure that automation sticks in the long run, particularly as teams evolve over time.

“At the end of the day, it’s the people on the floor who determine whether automation succeeds,” says Walls.