Digitalization in manufacturing
From being the first industry to utilize automation in 1913, the manufacturing industry prides itself on being one step ahead on technological advancements. It continues to provide a pathway for many countries toward rising incomes and living standards.
Today, all manufacturers are experiencing the same struggles of scarce resources, drops in demand, and worker unavailability.
Therefore, to deal with its challenges, manufacturers must embrace digital technology to transform their value chain by reducing costs and improving resilience.
What is shaping the industry?
As technology and higher levels of automation revolutionize factories and operational processes, the world is primed to move toward a more efficient, seamless, and greener manufacturing industry.
Dig deeper
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Industry 4.0
Industry 4.0 aims to revolutionize how companies manufacture, improve and distribute products, integrate new technology, and enhance cyber-physical systems.
It supports the automation of production processes and enables real-time digital control, and has the potential to blur the line between actual and virtual warehouses.
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Big data and advanced analytics
Big Data will help reimagine the manufacturing sector's operations and functions.
An influx of machine learning capabilities has helped to increase production capacity whilst reducing material consumption rates.
Additionally, automation systems will help to pave the way for a self-diagnostic and predictive maintenance approach. Analyzing data collected from sensors on the factory floor can improve assets' quality, safety and productivity.
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Internet of Things (IoT)
IoT describes physical objects with integrated sensors, software, and other technologies to connect and exchange data with other devices and systems.
With cloud-supported IoT, manufacturers utilize real-time data to accurately predict when equipment and machinery require maintenance and improve energy efficiency.
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Advanced manufacturing technologies
Technological advancements enable manufacturers to streamline production processes and deliver higher quality products to meet consumer demand.
Innovative and digital manufacturing methods, such as additive manufacturing, support manufacturers in overcoming the limitations of traditional production methods.
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B2B E-Commerce
Whilst not traditionally considered an E-Commerce-driven business, B2B manufacturers increasingly use customer portals to handle orders, sell accessories, and other more transactional parts of their business.
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Digital workforce and industry specialist supply
Following breakthroughs in computing, artificial intelligence, and robotics alongside new business models, the digital sphere of manufacturing operations grows in importance.
To adapt to new challenges and opportunities, manufacturers must identify their skill gaps and assemble the optimal workforce for their digital business needs.
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