Analysis of the challenges and benefits of the integration of automation in supply chain operations

This research seeks to examine the benefits and challenges associated with automation integration. Three research objectives and hypotheses were proposed to assess automation integration in supply chain operations. By employing a quantitative research approach, the study identified and analysed the strategic benefits derived from automation integration as well as the challenges associated with automation. The data was collected through an online questionnaire from one hundred and two (102) supply chain professionals in various industries using a convenient sampling technique. The collected data was analysed using frequency tables, simple percentages, and descriptive statistics (mean and standard deviation). The Pearson Product Moment Correlation Coefficient and regression analyses were used for hypotheses testing, using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 29. The study empirically establishes that automation integration has a significant relationship with perceived benefits, perceived challenges, and strategies for maximising the benefits. The results of this study support the three hypotheses tested and recommend that organisations prioritise employee training and education initiatives to equip their workforce with the skills necessary to utilise automated systems. Additionally, organisations should collaborate with technology providers and conduct regular assessments of their automation systems to identify areas for improvement and ensure continuous alignment with objectives. Keywords: Automation Integration, Implementation Strategies, Supply Chain Operations.