Smart Manufacturing
Technology is advancing so fast, it’s hard to keep up. From phones that order and pay for your coffee, to your teenager’s tiny wrist-based computer, tech is an undeniably ubiquitous part of our lives – whether we like it or not. It should come as no surprise, then, that the same developments are also affecting the way our day-to-day products are designed, manufactured and transported. Technology is creeping into the entire supply chain, with impacts from sourcing down through to logistics.
Smarter Logistics
According to the National Institute of Standards and Technology (part of the U.S. Department of Commerce), smart systems are “fully-integrated, collaborative manufacturing systems that respond in real-time to meet changing demands and conditions in the factory, in the supply network, and in customer needs.”
Smart manufacturing is a souped-up version of ages-old manufacturing (creating products out of raw materials) that employs computer control and advanced adaptability (think artificial intelligence). Smart manufacturing takes advantage of modern-day information and manufacturing technologies to enable adaptability and flexibility in all the processes involved in making and transporting goods in a global market.
Smart Manufacturing Consultants
Not surprisingly, smart manufacturing consultants have popped up to help companies learn about and adapt to these new technologies. They are encouraging companies to start planning and investing in projects and initiatives now that get ready for their eventual evolution into a digitally connected “smart” enterprise.
What's Next?
How close is this to happening? It depends on who you ask. On an individual scale, many companies and factories are already employing smart processes in various parts of their operations. But the dream of “cradle to grave” product tracking, complete with intelligent oversights and real-time adaptability, is not quite here yet.
Numerous challenges will need to be overcome before it’s truly upon us. Training, hardware development, and, not least of all, human buy-in – both conceptual and financial – have a ways to go yet.
Work with a Company That's Ahead
Smart manufacturing is coming; it’s just a question of when.
As always, our product leaders have their ears to the ground and keep current on industry developments. Contact us today to find out how our experienced professionals can help make sure your business is running as smoothly and efficiently as possible in today’s fast-paced global marketplace.
More Reading
- Automation World article: What is Smart About Smart Manufacturing?
- Forbes article: The anatomy of smart manufacturing
- National Institute of Standards and Technology: Smart Manufacturing and Smart Manufacturing Operations, Planning and Control Program
- Industry Week article: What is Smart Manufacturing?
