For much of human history, scientific research and innovation have been the result of painstaking trial and error, with single discoveries being the result of a scientist’s entire life’s work. Fortunately, the nature of innovation has by definition made this process more efficient over time, resulting in a parallel increase in humanity’s technological and scientific knowledge and skill. These innovations are no more apparent than in the huge strides made in the fields of technology and scientific knowledge in the last half-century.
Today, human beings possess technology that mere decades ago would’ve appeared like magic to the common person. Advances made in computation, automation, and graphic modeling offer enormous potential for more efficient and easier scientific research moving forwards. Even beyond these specialized industrial tools, improvements in organizational and communication tools intended for the schools and offices also offer advantages to firms involved in research and development.
There is no doubt that these innovations are the future of research. Unfortunately, various obstacles — such as a reluctance to shift procedures or to invest in newer technologies — can sometimes result in R&D firms, particularly private ones. In turn, they can fail to take advantage of these new technologies to utilize them to their utmost potential. To help better shed light upon these advantages, here are five key reasons why scientific research firms shouldn’t ignore the potential benefits of new technologies.
Virtual Models
One of the most significant technological leaps in the past few decades for research is the development of graphic modeling software. Where once all experimental research had to be conducted with real-world materials, and results had to be observed and recorded by real-life scientists with only prior research providing some basis for hypothesis, today a great deal of work when designing or developing an experiment or hypothesis can be done using virtual modeling software instead.
For instance, tools like chemical process technology can estimate the results of a variety of experimental stimuli (such as mixing) to deliver quick and reliable results. By using this technology on chemical substances, without utilizing materials or workers, more dependable results can be obtained. Modeling technology can also minimize the risk of human error on calculations and observations, further increasing the efficiency of the research and development process.
Automation Technology
Another highly significant technological development is the rise in accuracy and ability of automation in recent years. While only a few decades ago automation referred to giant, clumsy robotic arms that required skilled operators with years of training to utilize, today automated tools can be incredibly precise and delicate. In turn, many can be operated independently, all without the control of a technician.
Automation has a huge variety of scientific applications, including in chemical research and development by eliminating the necessity for scientists to personally carry out repetitive tasks in the experimental process. The improved efficiency can reduce the risk of human error, helping to prevent the need for repeated efforts in the laboratory. This can quickly translate to better cost savings, not only in billable hours, but also through reducing the waste of reagents and compounds, too.
Instant Communication
Research and development is inherently an endeavor that requires the cooperation of a team of people. Poor cooperation can lead to all sorts of logistical issues and costly errors that lower the efficiency and productive capacity of a research firm. Fortunately, there are a variety of corporate communication solutions offered by various tech platforms that can streamline this process, both for convention businesses and research teams.
Despite the conveniences that these modern solutions offer, however, many research facilities and teams are hesitant to implement a new communication system. They may cite their reasons as being due to the hassle or potential training or technological challenges it would pose. Over the long term, though, streamlining communication between team members is definitely worth the initial cost and transition of updating communication methods.
Increased Organization
Modern technology also offers significant improvements to data and resource organization compared to traditional methods. Rather than attempting to coordinate tasks between project members through email or memos, modern project management software can easily streamline the process of assigning tasks and sharing input and data, while handily keeping track of available resources and budgets automatically without the need of an office accountant.
A lot of these software solutions can actually act as substitutes for administrative assistants and accountants, allowing more physical space in the firm to be dedicated to research and development. Furthermore, the cost-benefit analysis of implementing these organizational systems should not be ignored. When trying to save capital, reducing unnecessary overhead costs can be a powerful incentive.
Better Recordkeeping
Data storage is another area in which modern technology has made vast improvements that can greatly benefit the efficiency of a research firm. By retaining online or digital records using cloud storage solutions or data management software, you can eliminate old-fashioned record cabinets or giant hard drive shelves that take up enormous amounts of space. Modern data storage solutions also offer better protection against data loss and data corruption, securing your firm against unexpected losses of work and research.
It’s unquestionably clear as to how modern technological solutions can improve efficiency in research applications. Ideally, these five examples helped to illustrate why committing the additional up-front cost, time, and effort to upgrade to newer technology is greatly worthwhile in the long run. By moving forwards with the future of research and development, you can ensure your research stays at the forefront of the industry, using cutting-edge tools to do cutting-edge work.