Robotics as a Service (RAAS Model)

Intuitive System - RaaS

Robotics-as-a-Service (RaaS) is changing businesses by providing innovative, scalable, and low-cost robotic solutions that require minimal upfront investment. The global Robotics as a Service market is poised for significant growth, driven by the increasing demand for automation and digital transformation initiatives. 

Companies can now subscribe to robots in the same way they subscribe to software. Besides, as AI, IoT, and ERP interfaces keep getting better, RaaS is becoming an essential part of the Industry. Let's understand this in detail.

What Is Robotics as a Service (RaaS)?

Robots-as-a-Service (RaaS) is a subscription-based model that allows companies to rent robots as needed, rather than purchasing them outright. In this model, companies retain control over the robots they use while the service provider handles maintenance. Unlike traditional robotics programs that require significant upfront capital expenditure (CapEx), RaaS follows an operational expenditure (OpEx) model, making robotics adoption more affordable and flexible.  

Also, it allows you to scale inventory up or down with limited investment. Many businesses can benefit from RaaS because it allows for more flexibility when scaling their investment in robotic solutions. Plus, it allows for faster upgrades and less maintenance burden. RaaS is growing in sectors like logistics, healthcare and manufacturing. However, as with all technology and services, there are considerations. They relate to data security and vendor dependency that must be managed by businesses.  

Types of Robots Service Business Models  

Companies of all sizes and types, from small start-ups to big corporations, can utilize the flexible business methods offered by Robotics-as-a-Service (RaaS). When deploying automation, these methods make the best use of cost, risk, and scale.

Pay-Per-Use

Companies are charged based on pay-per-use. Besides, perfect for short-term or project-based robotic needs that require cost-effective control. 

Based on Subscriptions 

Offers set monthly or yearly rates for automatic services that can be used without interruption. Great for businesses that need regular automation but don't want to pay a lot of money up front. 

Lease-To-Own 

With lease-to-own, businesses can get robots on lease or loan and then buy them when the deal is up. Offers both short-term freedom and long-term asset buying.

Hybrid Models 

Hybrid models combine flat-rate payments with charges based on usage. Offers both stable costs and operating freedom to adapt to changing demand. 

Performance-based Models 

Fees depend on hitting certain KPIs, such as service or efficiency goals. Besides, this approach is best for places that are focused on results and need a clear return on investment (ROI).

How Does RaaS work? 

Robots-as-a-Service (RaaS) is a flexible way for businesses to run their operations. Instead of buying robots, they hire or rent them, usually on a pay-per-use or contract basis. Besides, SaaS businesses can use robotic services without having to buy their gear. RaaS companies take care of maintenance, software changes, and integration, ensuring that everything works at its best.   

Why Businesses Are Choosing RaaS?    

With a market value of US$23.03 billion by 2025, commercial service robotics is expected to be the market leader. This shows the rising need for flexible automation models like Robotics as a Service (RaaS) that allow for cost-effective adoption that can be scaled up.

Lowering the Risk

Updating and maintenance are taken care of by providers. This cuts down on internal work and unplanned downtime.  

Scalability

You can easily add or remove robots from a group. It meets the needs of seasonal or project-specific needs.

Access to Technology

You can always utilize the newest robots without having to acquire new ones. To remain competitive, use the most recent tools.

Lower Upfront Costs

SaaS changes capital expenditures (CapEx) into operating expenses (OpEx) that can be controlled. Companies don't have to spend a lot of money up front since they just pay for what they utilize.

Faster Deployment

You can put robots to work in several days. Also, this speeds up the process of automating chores and starting projects. 

Flexibility 

Businesses may adjust contracts to meet their requirements. Change your command depending on the size or scope of the work. 

Focus on Core Tasks 

Vendors are in charge of robotic maintenance and management. Teams inside the company work on planning and growth.  

Core Modules of RaaS Enabled by ERP Integration

ERP systems are essential for making RaaS setups as efficient as possible. Industrial robots, sensors, and server ERP modules can all work together smoothly to ensure that reports are sent in real time. Core modules of SaaS are:  

Subscription & Contract Management  

RaaS platforms let you set up automatic payment systems that use usage-based, flat-rate, or a combination of both. Service-level agreements (SLAs) automatically renew based on usage data through digital enforcement. The system sends alerts when SLAs break or rules go unobserved. Besides, centralized screens make contract terms and renewal dates clear, which helps the finance and operations teams monitor cash flow and vendor performance.

Asset & Fleet Management  

GPS and IoT devices allow real-time monitoring of robots, enabling visibility into the fleet's usage. It lets systems keep track of uptime, past maintenance, and performance data. The system constantly checks the health of the battery, the temperature, and the internal data. Besides, the fleet management screen compiles this information to plan preventive maintenance. Historical logs are also helpful for making guarantee claims.  

IoT & Remote Monitoring  

IoT connection lets you track a robot's work in real time and sends you alerts if something goes wrong. Besides, geo-fencing makes sure that robots only work in certain places, and predictive repair systems keep them from breaking down. ERP systems receive data safely, enabling insights and enhancing operations. With remote troubleshooting tools, techs can find problems and fix them without having to visit the site.  

Field Service & Maintenance Management  

Field service management is built right into the ERP on Robotics as a Service systems. Past usage informs the creation of preventive repair plans. When problems happen, automatic booking systems send out technicians to fix them. Besides, integration of ERP makes it easier to buy parts and send service staff. ERP systems securely receive data, providing insights and improving operations.  

Inventory & Spare Parts Management  

ERP drives inventory systems that track robotic spare parts. Besides, automatic restocking rules prevent stock-outs, and vendors always provide the best prices. Workflows for reverse transportation handle returning broken parts and warranty claims. Integrated screens show you the available parts, their usage, and the time required to obtain them.  

CRM & Customer Portals

People who use RaaS can keep track of their bills, robot usage, and service requests through customer websites. Users can create tickets, monitor SLAs, and provide feedback using self-service tools. Integrating CRM keeps all your contact data, help records, and contract terms in one place. Tailored dashboards track service levels and robot performance by project or location for each customer.  

Sales & Quotation Lifecycle

Configure-Price-Quote (CPQ) tools let sales teams make unique Robotics as a Service packages based on the number of robots and how often they are used. Integrated processes make contracts, handle extensions, offer, and switch between rental and buy models. Quotes are changed by dynamic price systems based on usage levels. This lets sales teams quickly meet customer needs. Integrating ERP makes sure that quotes are correct.

Finance & Revenue Recognition 

The finance tools track how income is recognized according to IFRS/GAAP rules for membership services. Estimate deferred revenue immediately and recognize it over the life of a deal. Profitability screens show how well each tool, customer, or project is doing. Integrating payment and usage data makes sure that there is financial compliance and openness. Correct forecasts help financial teams make intelligent decisions. 

Compliance & Security 

Robots gather information and send it, ensuring it is kept safely according to GDPR and HIPAA rules. Video and sensor data are secured, and access rules are strictly followed. For operating logs, security events, and legal reports, ERP systems keep audit tracks. Besides, compliance alerts help businesses stay ready for audits and keep private data safe. Use tools for security. Inspect for weaknesses every day and fix systems before they break. 

AI & Analytics 

AI programs analyze how robots operate, identify patterns in their behavior, and enhance their performance. Dashboards show ROI per robot, indicating the amount of money saved and the amount of work completed. Predictive models can tell when extra parts will be needed. Adding ERP makes sure that data flows in real time so that you can get strategic insights. Besides, businesses can use these data to plan scalable operations with great accuracy.