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The Midlands, where EBS is based, has always been home to manufacturing. And manufacturing has been a sector that has always had evolution at its core whether that’s improvement in machinery or a focus on processes such as the Toyota Production System.
But are there more benefits of using technology in manufacturing that you aren’t yet experiencing?
Digital manufacturing: an overview
The phrase digital manufacturing has seen an increase in interest over the last few years and there are various definitions on what exactly it is and includes. The TWI describe it as ‘Digital manufacturing is the application of computer systems to manufacturing services, supply chains, products and processes.’ Made Smarter UK goes a step further to highlight Additive Manufacturing, Big Data, Virtual Reality and Augmented Reality as well as Robotics and Automation.
For us, both are right but we also understand that for SMEs knowing when to review existing technology and when to look to the future with big data, can be off-putting. We’d like to reassure you that if you are using software, hosting your infrastructure in the cloud or have a range of devices in your business then you are already using technology. Our advice is to consider how using existing and emerging technologies can help improve your manufacturing. This could be as simple as investigating additional functionality for your ERP or talking to an IT expert about turning a manual process into an automated one.
Increasing technology in your manufacturing business: what are the benefits?
Working towards a Smart Factory approach might need SMEs to take a longer-term strategic approach. But there are smaller technological implementations such as bespoke software, wireless connectivity or shop floor data capture that will bring about benefits including:
- Real time data capture
- Increased productivity
- Enhanced efficiency ]
- Reduced cost
- Time savings
Where to learn more? Talk to EBS for the extra byte in your supply chain
The team at EBS is always happy to talk technology solutions for manufacturers and distributors. We’ll be at the Mach Exhibition on Stand 17 – 168 at the NEC on the 15th – 19th April, our exclusive free-of-charge technology event Thrive Together 2024 on the 15th May at Moor Hall Hotel as well as the Smart Factory Expo at the NEC on the 5th – 6th June. If you can’t make any of these events then talk to us via our live chat or email [email protected].
