The effect of social factors on the implementation of automation: an empirical study in Taiwan

摘要

In a highly competitive global economy, automation has been an important approach to improve productivity, quality, and customer satisfaction. The literature reveals that when introduc- ing automation systems, social influences are usually neglected. This study cross-organizationally examines the impact of social factors on the success of automation. We analyzed data obtained from the questionnaires of 105 companies and supplementary interviews of six firms in Taiwan. Statistical analyses show that a greater extent of automation tends to be accompanied by a higher Level of social activities; companies with matching social and technical stages are not necessarily More successful in automation; social factors significantly predict the degree of success of automation.