Main Interview pandemic , there were predictions from a number of different analysts suggesting that the majority of manufacturers were not likely to adopt the cloud . Perhaps one fifth of manufacturers would start to look at cloud technologies and adopt them by 2026 . Post-pandemic , however , that prediction has fallen flat , with perhaps four times that number actively adopting technologies to run their businesses .
“ All three areas of challenge need to be considered , but not in isolation . Legislation and societal trends are driving technological change , and macro-economic circumstances are impacting all of them . So , it ’ s the perfect storm , but it ’ s not all bad . There are some really great things that are going to come out of this as well ,” Rob asserts .
“ While manufacturing has always been more cautious than other industries in adopting the cloud , and that is perfectly acceptable when considering data security concerns , I do think this is changing and that the cloud has become incredibly important for manufacturers . Streamlining processes , increasing efficiencies , and unlocking new opportunities for growth are all obvious benefits , but there are additional ones . Manufacturers are able to attract a different type of workforce if they are able to offer remote working , which is an attractive pull to people who are entering the workforce .
“ The cloud also improves data management and security solutions . This requires neither investment nor expertise . Cloud solutions provide access to a huge amount of data which can help manufacturers to identify patterns , optimize processes , and make more informed decisions about the impact of business operations .
“ For example , one of our customers in North America that manufactures kinesiology tape was repeatedly at the mercy of supply chain issues , and not as a result of any internal processes . We worked
“
It ’ s not about reducing the need for manual labor . As we move into the fifth industrial revolution , it ’ s about adopting technologies and augmenting them with human decision making
together , leveraging other commercial
“ technologies out in the marketplace to build a model that was able to predict supply chain requirements , based on when specific athletic events were taking place . Predictions are based on athlete participation , injury probability , and tape use . We were able to build out models using cloud data to provide real insights into the specific times of the year when demand for this product is high , thereby enabling enhanced supply chain planning . The cloud provides access to more than proprietary data , making it easier to deploy automation , and leverage artificial intelligence to streamline processes .
“ It ’ s not about reducing the need for manual labor . As we move into the fifth industrial revolution , it ’ s about adopting technologies and augmenting them with human decision making . Artificial intelligence can make a recommendation for the best course of action . As such , the role of the human being changes from managing everything to managing by exception , thereby allowing for more effective decision making . This facilitates faster production times , fewer cycles , reduced costs , and ultimately , higher quality products ,” he enthuses .
Data connectivity
Rob expounds the collaborative virtues of the cloud in terms of working with partners and suppliers and improving customer
manufacturing-today . com 13