Automation is often included in a wider refit/redesign process. Assuming no significant structural work is required, a typical installation can take up to a week to get the machine into position, and a similar time to test that it is working and to provide training.

Automated systems need less space than drawer or channel systems. Many pharmacies integrate a system to enlarge their sales areas, and systems such as the Rowa Vmax 160 can optimise space by storing up to 4,000 packages per running metre.

Required floor space can be as little as 2m², such as for the Consis B0, or 4.2m² for the CONSIS B3. Dimensions can otherwise typically be anywhere from 1.5m to 5m long (and in extended multi-module versions greater than 15m) and from around 1.2m in depth.

However, dispensing capacity can be doubled by an additional unit included in the machine which may only add another 30cm to the depth. Height can range typically from 1.5-2.1m, but may reach 3.5m.

Omnicell Speed-Box can be custom made, with a storage capacity of 9,000 packs and dispensing 900 packs an hour. It is 0.75m deep, with width of 1.5m-3.1m and height 1.65m-2.5m in increments of 5cm to optimise space. The Medimat width can range from 1.31-1.61m, but length is from 3.75m to 17m to allow storage capacity of up to 60,000 packs.