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Ready to take the leap into collaborative robot automation? It’s an exciting step, but choosing the right partner to guide you is paramount. The success of your business, your team’s confidence, and your long-term productivity all hinge on this crucial decision.

Before you commit, it's essential to arm yourself with these 10 essential questions to ask potential suppliers before choosing an automation partner. Their answers will reveal who truly has the expertise, commitment, and long-term vision to make your automation journey a resounding success.

1. Are you a certified system integrator for collaborative robots?

Why this matters: Certification isn't just a fancy badge; it proves the supplier has undergone rigorous training and assessment from leading robot manufacturers, like Universal Robots. Many robot and automation equipment suppliers lack this level of specialised expertise.

Why Cobots Online is the right choice: We are proud to be one of only five Universal Robots Certified System Integrators in the UK. This distinction means we meet the highest industry standards for cobot integration. And it’s why our customers consistently return to us, because they trust our unparalleled expertise and proven reliability.

Red flag: If they're not certified, how can you truly trust their ability to integrate and properly support your cobot system? You could be taking a significant gamble.

2. How do you guarantee compliance with the new ISO 10218-2:2025 safety standard?

Why this matters: ISO 10218-2:2025 is the latest global safety standard, consolidating ISO 10218-2 and TS 15066 into one comprehensive document. Non-compliance puts your workforce and your entire business at serious risk.

Why Cobots Online is the right choice: We ensure full compliance with ISO 10218-2:2025, meticulously addressing force and pressure limits, safe working zones, thorough risk assessments, and all necessary safety protocols. Cobots Online’s unwavering commitment to safety and compliance is a cornerstone of why customers choose us as their long-term automation partner.

Red flag: If a supplier still references outdated standards or avoids discussing compliance, they are clearly not keeping up with crucial industry regulations – and that's a serious liability for you.

3. Can you show proof of successful cobot integrations in my industry?

Why this matters: Experience truly is everything in automation. Ask for tangible case studies, real-world results, and references from companies that have successfully deployed their solutions.

Why Cobots Online is the right choice: We have a robust, proven track record of deploying cobot welding and automation solutions for UK manufacturers, consistently improving efficiency and ROI. Many of our customers return for additional systems because they implicitly trust our ability to deliver automation that genuinely works.

Red flag: If they can't provide concrete proof, are you willing to be their experiment?

4. Can we speak to existing customers who have used your solutions?

Why this matters: A reliable supplier should have happy customers who are willing to vouch for their expertise, service, and long-term support. Testimonials are good, but direct conversations are better.

Why Cobots Online is the right choice: We don’t just have satisfied customers, we have repeat customers. Our clients consistently return to us for additional automation projects, which serves as a powerful testament to our exceptional support and genuine long-term partnership approach. Many of our customers are more than happy to have a chat and share their experience. No sales pitch, just honest feedback from people who’ve been there.

Red flag: If they dodge this question or only provide vague, unverified testimonials, consider that a major warning sign.

5. Do you offer live demonstrations, sample runs, or proof-of-concept testing?

Why this matters: You absolutely need to see the solution in action, preferably with your own components, to ensure it works effectively before making any financial commitment.

Why Cobots Online is the right choice: We offer live demonstrations, sample runs, and proof-of-concept testing. This allows you to witness first-hand how our cobots perform in real-world applications. We invest this time in proving our solutions because we believe in building enduring, long-term relationships, not just making a quick sale.

Red flag: If they can't or won't demonstrate their solution, how can you possibly know it will actually work for your specific needs?

6. What level of integration support do you provide beyond just selling the cobot?

Why this matters: A true automation partner should handle everything from programming and tooling to comprehensive training and ongoing long-term support. They shouldn't just drop off a cobot and leave you to figure out the rest.

Why Cobots Online is the right choice: We provide full integration support, including expert programming, seamless commissioning, thorough operator training, and ongoing technical assistance to ensure your system runs flawlessly from day one and beyond. Our customers know that when they choose Cobots Online, they’re choosing a dedicated, long-term automation partner, not merely a one-time supplier.

Red flag: If they only sell hardware and expect you to handle the rest, they are not a genuine automation partner.

7. How will this cobot integrate with my existing processes and equipment?

Why this matters: Proper, seamless integration is paramount for maximisng efficiency. Your chosen supplier should meticulously evaluate your current workflow, existing tools, and software to guarantee seamless operation.

Why Cobots Online is the right choice: We adopt a highly customised approach, carefully assessing your current production line, existing equipment, and specific operational goals. This allows us to integrate a solution that truly enhances, not disrupts, your existing workflow. This meticulous attention to detail is precisely why so many of our customers trust us with their automation needs time and time again.

Red flag: If they don't ask detailed questions about your current setup, they're not serious about delivering a genuinely tailored solution.

8. What happens after installation? What ongoing support and maintenance do you provide?

Why this matters: A cobot is a significant, long-term investment. You need reliable access to spare parts, expert troubleshooting, crucial software updates, and responsive, knowledgeable support.

Why Cobots Online is the right choice: We offer comprehensive after-sales support, including proactive maintenance plans, prompt troubleshooting, timely software updates, and quick access to essential spare parts. Many of our customers return for additional cobots because they know with certainty that Cobots Online will be there to support them long after the initial installation.

Red flag: If they disappear after installation, you'll be left entirely on your own when things go wrong.

9. Can the system scale and adapt as my automation needs grow?

Why this matters: Your business will undoubtedly evolve. A good supplier will design a system that inherently allows for future expansion, the integration of additional tooling, and straightforward reprogramming.

Why Cobots Online is the right choice: Our solutions are designed with scalability in mind. So, whether you need to expand your operations, reprogram for new tasks, or integrate additional automation in the future, we ensure your system can seamlessly adapt. This foresight is why so many of our customers keep coming back,  they know we plan for their long-term success, not just immediate needs.

Red flag: If they're only focused on today's needs, you'll likely be stuck with an outdated and inflexible solution in just a few years.

10. What makes you the right supplier for us?

Why this matters: The best suppliers will confidently and clearly articulate why they stand out from the competition, whether it's their unparalleled expertise, their consistent proven results, or their ability to provide comprehensive, full-spectrum support.

Why Cobots Online is the right choice: We are proud to be one of the UK’s leading Universal Robots Certified Integrators, with an undeniable track record of delivering safe, compliant, and fully supported automation solutions that consistently drive real, measurable results. We don’t just sell robots, we build long-term relationships. That's why so many of our customers consistently prefer to trust us over anyone else.

Red flag: If they struggle to answer this fundamental question convincingly, they might not be the right fit for your business.

Automation That’s Right for You: Your Path to Success 

If a potential supplier can't answer these 10 questions convincingly and transparently, you're undoubtedly taking a risk. Prioritise choosing a certified, highly experienced, and proven cobot integrator to ensure your automation project is not just a success, but a truly transformative and profitable journey for your business.

The right supplier doesn’t just sell cobots,  they ensure your automation journey is smooth, safe, and ultimately, highly profitable.

Ready to see how Cobots Online can transform your operations and set you on the path to automation success? Contact our expert automation team today for more information and a personalised demo of our collaborative robot solutions. Let's build your automated future, together.