Initial Resistance
When robots first arrived, staff often felt threatened. Would they be replaced?
The Reality
In practice, robots didn't replace workers. They replaced tedious tasks. Workers were redeployed to higher-value work.
The Shift
Data from Texas deployments shows:
- Initial concern: 70% of staff expressed anxiety
- After 1 month operation: 45% still concerned
- After 3 months operation: 12% concerned
- After 6 months operation: 3% concerned (and those specific to change)
Positive Outcomes
- Reduced repetitive stress injuries: -60%
- Staff satisfaction with work: +45%
- Turnover reduction: -35%
- Promotion opportunity: Staff moved to management roles
Cultural Evolution
Teams develop affection for robots. Some name them. They become part of workplace culture. This is similar to how new technologies (computers, internet) were initially feared then embraced.
Management Insight
Success requires transparency. Companies that explain the "why" and involve staff in deployment see faster acceptance and better outcomes.