Thread by @william_r_kerr

Our @HarvardHBS MBA course on #ManagingTheFutureOfWork is underway!

I share a few key ideas from each class that sparked conversation.

Class 6 discussed @osaroai, a startup that "builds brains for robots" (case #819-099): osaro.com

Already prominent in sectors requiring top precision or routine/dangerous tasks (eg, automakers), declines in robotic prices relative to labor costs will increase the number and variety of sectors where robotics take on roles. To date, we have 1b+ cars but vastly fewer robots...

Osaro is at the leading edge of AI robotics to power this future, incl. picking items up. Sounds basic, but try our in-class test: 1) take 3 steps, 2) make 3 jumps, 3) pick up 3 things. Which was easiest/hardest? Robots struggle with non-standard tasks.

Osaro's lead application is warehouse picking. Why? It's a growth industry, the environment is closed/predictable, much is already automated (O-ring theories), and the setting allows learning by the robots.

Amazon is investing heavily, although <20% of facilities are automated.

This tech will be applied into other spaces as well. Class debated bringing it into food service. What do you think?

Here's Osaro co-founder & CEO @derikpridmore talking about the technology and where it can go: