SMART MANUFACTURING
Bureau also adds Industry 4.0 as a driver for smarter supply chains , “ Advanced automation is primed to cause large growth for the manufacturing sector over the next few years and the broader supply chain needs to advance at the same rate for the industry to scale the benefits . In addition , the increased demand for mass customisation calls for a smarter , data-driven approach to manage the complexity that comes with producing these tailor-made products while minimising costs , shortages and excess inventory .”
How Can Manufacturers Develop Smarter Operations in Their Supply Chain ? “ For a manufacturer to develop a smart supply chain , it all begins with digitisation ,” says Hughes . “ As a first step , manufacturers must look inwards and ensure that a comprehensive data-driven picture of their organisation exists . Every factory floor is unique , with unique processes , so there ’ s no one-size-fits-all approach . With a centralised view , organisations can see clearly which processes might not be driving as much efficiency as they should .
“ By digitising operations across the shop floor , manufacturers will be equipped with the data-driven insights they need to ensure each area within the supply chain is as efficient as possible . By sharing these insights with each link , suppliers can react and adjust their supply according to demand , all in real-time . Call it autonomous , or hyperconnected — essentially what we ’ re talking about is achieving the maximum visibility of information .”
Agreeing with Hughes , Yang adds that it is important to “ identify the use-cases and challenges you want to overcome . A pragmatic approach to implementing new
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