The ROI of Lab Automation: The Value of Robotics for Research

Beyond Efficiency: The True Return on Investment in Laboratory Automation

Automation is revolutionising research and laboratory science, redefining human-robot collaboration and boosting productivity in the process. Lab automation helps laboratories to lower their operational costs by reducing human error, removing manual bottlenecks and enhancing data quality.

Astech are a pioneer in automated lab systems and our innovative solutions deliver measurable value and long-term efficiency for leading research organisations.

Redefining Return on Investment in the Modern Laboratory

ROI in a lab setting means more than just cost savings. The benefits of automation also include time efficiency, improved accuracy, data reproducibility and safety. A growing industry focus is the measurement of tangible returns from the cost of automation, and there is increasing recognition of the double advantage robotics provide: cost reductions in labour on the one hand, and strategic gains e.g. faster time to insight, on the other.

The Real Value of Robotics for Research

Robotics in research is not a cost centre but a value driver, and one that offers significant benefits beyond financial gains. Laboratory automation is a safe, precise way to increase throughput and reproducibility, while also reducing manual errors and occupational risks. The use of robotics removes dull, repetitive chores from scientists, freeing them up for higher-value tasks like data analysis or experimental design.

Key ROI Drivers in Lab Automation

The main factors that contribute to return on investment are:

• Efficiency gains. Reduction in manual workload, generating improved turnaround times.
• Quality and accuracy. Fewer errors, and the same consistency on repetitive tasks, leading to higher data reliability.
• Scalability. The flexibility to adapt automation as demands evolve to become more complex.
• Resource optimisation. A better utilisation of personnel and equipment, helping to expand workforce capabilities.
• Sustainability. Reduced waste and improved energy efficiency.

How Leading Labs Measure Value from Automation

Laboratories assess ROI in practical terms by comparing pre-automation baseline metrics like time, cost and error rates with post-automation performance indicators. A clear way to calculate automation value is to calculate the following key metrics: cost-per-sample, error reduction percentage, throughput increase, and payback period, with and without robotics.

Astech’s Proven Approach to Laboratory Automation

Astech are an expert provider of lab automation solutions, supplying systems that deliver measurable ROI to leading Laboratory Automation and Drug Delivery companies in the UK and across the globe. Our flexible, custom solutions can be tailored to any lab size, discipline and budget, and we offer end-to-end project delivery, from concept to commissioning and ongoing support. Our robotics are adaptable and able to integrate with your existing equipment and software ecosystems.

The Future of Research: Smarter, More Connected Labs

The future of lab automation and robotics is heading towards more autonomous and sustainable systems, driven by AI. These smarter systems will move beyond simple repetition to handle increasingly complex tasks, such as data-driven optimisation and analysis.

As a future-ready automation partner, Astech are working hard to stay ahead of evolving research demands, and continuing to help labs thrive in productivity and output.