Automation is a subset of operational efficiency, which itself is only a small impetus for innovation. Off the top of my head, the impetus for innovation can be

Automation is a subset of operational efficiency, which itself is only a small impetus for innovation. Off the top of my head, the impetus for innovation can be 1) to create bigger markets, 2) to create better quality, 3) to create extended product function, 4) to reduce cost. Cost reductions themselves can be discovered through 4.1) reduced labor costs (automation), 4.2) reduced material cost, 4.3) synergies with other product development efforts, 4.4) reduced risk/waste in production processes, 4.5) regulatory cost reduction, 4.6) reduced energy costs...