Automation Cuts Downtime

"I believe it's all about workflow," declares Wood, of Challenge. "It's about getting more throughput. And I firmly believe that these work-handling methods will be applied to smaller shops."

Polar's Kuehl points out other reasons automation will spread:

"Competition, lower costs, faster turnaround, higher quality and less injuries and workmen's compensation will drive the automation process in the coming years," explains Kuehl. "Demands to reduce back injuries, carpal tunnel syndrome and heavy physical work are causing the need to automate the bindery."