Which of the following factors relates to the benefits of automation in operations?

The benefits of automation in operations prominently include lower operational costs, which is a result of several factors. Automation allows businesses to streamline processes, reduce the need for manual intervention, and minimize human error. By incorporating automated systems, companies can increase production speeds and enhance efficiency, leading to a significant reduction in labor costs and resource wastage.

Additionally, automation can help achieve economies of scale as production volume increases, further driving down costs. This reduction in operational costs translates into higher profit margins and the ability to offer competitive pricing in the market. Therefore, the correct answer highlights one of the primary advantages that businesses aim for when investing in automated technologies in their operations.