Introduction

It’s been an unprecedented several months for manufacturers, and challenges are set to continue. Despite industry being unable to dedicate the time it’d like to researching the important new technologies that’ll help them stand strong in the future, businesses are now ready to get digital transformation back on track.

However, keeping up with IT innovations (and pinpointing those that are of most value) takes time. Time you could be focusing on your core business! So, we’ve compiled the must-know information about the IT technologies, risks and guidelines that’ll most impact manufacturers over the next 12-18 months in one convenient, comprehensive and entirely free eBook.

Exploring new technologies, cybersecurity, ERP, compliance and much more – all tailored to manufacturers – this eBook gives you all of what matters, and none of what doesn’t. Keep reading to arm yourself with the insight to help make informed IT and technology decisions that will put your business in more resilient position, learning how to harness new technologies and streamline IT infrastructure for optimal competitiveness.

Chapter 1: Keeping up with (and utilising!) tech

Manufacturers know how important new technologies are to their operations. They have the power to boost consistency, accuracy, productivity and security, making for a more competitive business with increased sales and profits. However, many manufacturers aren’t sure where to start with new technology, even though it’s essential that you respond quickly to trends and continually innovate.

When you’re busy running a complex operation, finding the time to keep up with developments can be tricky. And with a myriad of options all claiming to be the next big thing, knowing which will deliver the results you need is no easy feat either. As such, outdated and underutilised technology has become the norm in manufacturing. So, we’ve put together these tips to help you harness the opportunities of technology.

The big focuses for 20/21

Cloud – Systems are more secure and available when hosted in the cloud, which can reduce downtime, enhance productivity and mitigate risk

Automation – Processes are streamlined, leading to improved accuracy, efficiency and capacity to grow. Transform competitiveness and profitability

AI and machine learning: Predictive maintenance means no unplanned equipment downtime and cost-effective upgrades

CRM – Integrate with other systems for the full picture, and use insights to reinvigorate customer care, fostering loyalty and extending the customer lifecycle

The manufacturing IT Golden Rules

The nature of manufacturing means that benefits of new technology can be felt almost immediately. To ensure that your investments are well spent, and their positive effects felt across the entire operation, we recommend working with an IT specialist who will follow these three golden rules..

1. Pick the right product. Does it solve one or more problems and satisfy business objectives? Will it integrate with existing systems? Will it add value to secondary areas (such as customer service or distribution)? Depending on your business, you may need a multitasker, several independent pieces of software or a more radical change.
2. Properly configure, straight away. This will save costly remedial action later down the line, streamline the bedding in period and avoid disrupting the factory floor. There’s nothing worth than having to rip something out and starting again.
3. Use it to its full potential. Tech solutions are there to make things work smarter, but without your people getting on board, you face inefficiency and expense. An IT specialist will ensure teams are trained and start using new tech immediately.

At Sentis, we don’t simply implement and programme an ERP. Using our Six Sigma methodology, we go to great lengths to understand the inner workings of a business, and where challenges lie. The insights gained from this important preparation work allows us to deliver a strategic solution that focuses on improving processes and ensures that they work exactly as you want them to.

We work with a host of manufacturers to adopt a lean business process, lowering costs and resources associated with each step to ensure you stay competitive in today’s increasingly challenging and technologically advanced market.