Along with IoT (Internet of Things) and “big data.” another term that gets a lot of attention today is “smart manufacturing.” Often linked to the use of IoT devices and sensors in manufacturing, smart manufacturing is much more than a single technology or group of technologies.
The term “smart manufacturing” encompasses all activities and technology that use manufacturing data to improve any aspect of your operation to maximize productivity and profitability. If you are collecting data throughout the manufacturing process and using an ERP to store and analyze that data, you are equipped to become a smart manufacturer.
Moving from being a manufacturer that manages with data to being a smart manufacturer that leverages data to impact the bottom line requires being able to create and use data and information throughout the production cycle.
Companies just starting on the smart journey often realize a better utilization of labor and material when they make the move from having managers who work with static factory-level data to plant floor operators working with specific machine and production-quality data in real time. This access to real-time data delivers better shop-floor decisions that lead to increased productivity.
This first smart manufacturing transition can be jarring, but it makes the adoption of additional data-driven manufacturing techniques easier. Our clients have found that once they have easy access to real-time data, employees are open to further innovation…even making suggestions of their own.
Koster Keunen, Inc., a manufacturer based in Watertown, CT, is one such convert to smart manufacturing. Adding touchscreens in key areas gave employees an interactive production tracking and planning board to insure production is able to keep up with open orders.
Since 2004, Triple Helix has provided data and information systems for the aerospace and manufacturing industries. Our solutions complement existing technology investments to help companies take advantage of the cost savings and revenue enhancement that smart manufacturing can provide.
Contact us if you would like to schedule a risk-free consultation to see if Triple Helix can help your company better organize and access your data in real time.
